Trisha B. Thomas, Ph.D.

AI & UX Researcher | Learning Scientist | Cognitive Neuroscientist

Cognitive neuroscientist and researcher exploring how people—especially multilingual learners—interact with AI-powered learning technologies. My work bridges developmental science, language learning, and human-computer interaction, with a focus on inclusive, culturally responsive design. I’ve led projects at institutions including Harvard University, the University of Michigan, and the Basque Center on Cognition, Brain, and Language, and I collaborate with educators, designers, and researchers to create tools that support equity in learning.

What I Do

  • Design, implementation, and analysis of studies with children, families, and educational tools

  • Evaluate engagement, comprehension, and learning outcomes

  • Support EdTech teams in building inclusive, research-informed experiences

Recent projects include :

  • Evaluating AI storytelling agents for STEM learning

  • Assessing speech recognition performance with Spanish-English bilingual children

  • Designing and testing interactive eBooks for heritage language promotion

    (see Projects page for more info)

Background

I completed my Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience at the Basque Center on Cognition, Brain and Language, where I studied how accented speech influences attention and memory using EEG and behavioral methods. I also served as a visiting scholar at UC Irvine, contributing to the Converse to Learn project — a collaboration I continued throughout my postdoc.

At Harvard, my postdoctoral research focused on how children perceive and learn from conversational AI agents, particularly in multilingual and educationally marginalized contexts. I now continue as a Visiting Scholar while exploring new directions in user-centered research and design.

Let’s Connect

If you're developing AI-based educational tools, working on child-centered learning design, exploring UX challenges in multilingual contexts, or building resources to support AI literacy for families and educators, I’d love to explore potential collaboration opportunities.

  • View my CV (for full, academic CV, contact me)

  • Get in touch on the Contact page

  • I’m passionate about making science accessible and helping people connect with and contribute to their communities. You can learn more in the Community Engagement section of the About page