Senior UX Researcher, Product Experimentation (Inventors)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Researcher, Product Experimentation (Inventors)
Company: Woven by Toyota
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Job Type: Employee
Category: User Experience Research / Product Development
Date Posted: 2026-02-19
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive product experimentation through expert UX research methodologies, focusing on inventor-led initiatives within the innovative Woven City environment.
• Design and execute advanced qualitative and quantitative research studies, encompassing emerging technologies like VR, robotics, and mobility solutions.
• Provide critical, data-driven insights and strategic recommendations to inventors and cross-functional stakeholders to inform product development and experimental design.
• Act as a key advisor and mentor, fostering a culture of research excellence and continuous improvement within the Inventor UX team.
• Manage the full research lifecycle from planning and execution to reporting and stakeholder alignment, ensuring successful outcomes for complex, early-stage product experiments.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is titled "Senior UX Researcher," the emphasis on "Product Experimentation," "Inventors," and "PoCs" indicates a strong focus on applied research directly supporting product innovation and validation within a unique, forward-thinking urban mobility context. The requirement for client-facing experience suggests an external-facing or consulting-like aspect to the role, supporting external inventors.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and lead comprehensive qualitative and quantitative user research studies for inventor-led Proofs of Concept (PoCs) and experiments, with a particular emphasis on robotics and future mobility solutions.
• Execute a diverse range of user studies, integrating methods such as VR-based evaluations, biometric data collection (e.g., eye tracking, HRV, GSR), surveys, in-depth interviews, and market research to capture user behavior and sentiment.
• Analyze complex research data from various sources, translating findings into actionable, evidence-based recommendations for inventors, product teams, and leadership to guide strategic decisions.
• Actively engage in cross-functional discussions, provide research consultation to peers and management, lead post-mortem analyses to refine research practices, and mentor junior team members to enhance overall research capabilities.
• Oversee end-to-end research project management, encompassing rigorous planning, efficient execution, clear reporting of findings, and proactive stakeholder alignment to ensure project success and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to research, moving beyond theoretical applications to direct support of experimental product development. The mention of VR, biometrics, and robotics points to a highly specialized research environment demanding adaptability and expertise in cutting-edge technologies. The "mentor" aspect suggests a leadership expectation within the team.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Human Factors, Human Robot Interaction, Human Computer Interaction, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in User Experience (UX) Research, Product Research, or a comparable research-focused role.
• Proven track record in a client-facing research capacity, such as within a research agency, consulting firm, or equivalent external-facing role, demonstrating strong client management and advisory skills.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in designing and conducting a wide array of qualitative and quantitative UX research methodologies.
• Proficiency in user study execution, including planning, participant recruitment, data collection, and analysis.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize complex data into clear, actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
• Exceptional stakeholder communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence product direction and drive decision-making.
• Business-level proficiency in both English and Japanese (equivalent to JLPT N1 or above), essential for collaborating with a diverse inventor base and internal teams.
• Experience in managing end-to-end research projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with project objectives.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience with emerging technologies such as Extended Reality (XR) including Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR).
• Familiarity with robotics and advanced mobility systems research.
• Experience with biometric research methods and tools for detailed user experience evaluation.
• Proficiency in advanced research and data analysis tools, including platforms like Databricks, or programming languages such as Python and R.
• Experience supporting early-stage product development and providing consulting services to startups.

📝 Enhancement Note: The blend of academic background requirements with extensive practical experience, particularly in client-facing roles and emerging technologies, positions this as a senior-level position requiring both deep methodological knowledge and strategic advisory capabilities. The dual language proficiency is a critical requirement for this specific role within Woven City.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing end-to-end UX research projects, with a focus on experimental design and validation in product development contexts.
• Include case studies detailing the application of various research methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, VR, biometrics) to solve complex user problems and inform product strategy.
• Showcase examples of how research insights have directly led to measurable improvements in user experience, product performance, or experimental outcomes.
• Highlight experience in translating research findings into actionable recommendations for product teams, inventors, and stakeholders, demonstrating an ability to drive impact.

Process Documentation:

• Provide clear documentation of research processes, from initial problem framing and hypothesis generation to study design, data analysis, and reporting.
• Illustrate experience in adapting research processes for novel domains like robotics, mobility, and XR, demonstrating flexibility and innovation.
• Showcase a systematic approach to managing research projects, including planning, resource allocation, and stakeholder communication throughout the research lifecycle.
• Document how research findings are synthesized and presented to different audiences, ensuring clarity and driving adoption of recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX Researcher role, especially one focused on experimentation and supporting external inventors, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display research execution but also strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the tangible impact of their work on product innovation and business objectives. The emphasis on adapting processes for new technologies is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Competitive Salary - Based on experience.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX Researcher with 10+ years of experience in Tokyo, Japan, and requiring business-level Japanese and English proficiency, the estimated annual base salary range is ¥12,000,000 - ¥18,000,000 (approximately $80,000 - $120,000 USD, subject to exchange rates). This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior UX research roles in major tech hubs like Tokyo, considering the specialized nature of Woven City's work and the high language requirements.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary
• Flexible working hours, offering adaptability for complex research schedules.
• Paid Holiday: 20 days per year (prorated).
• Sick Leave: 6 days per year (prorated).
• Japanese Social Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including Health Insurance, Pension, Workers’ Compensation, Unemployment Insurance, and Long-term Care Insurance.
• Housing Allowance: Support for living expenses in Tokyo.
• Retirement Benefits: Long-term financial planning support.
• Rental Cars Support: Practical benefit for mobility and convenience.
• In-house Training Program: Opportunities for continuous learning in software and language studies, fostering professional development.

Working Hours:

• Flexible working time, allowing for adaptable schedules to accommodate research demands and inventor collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is robust, reflecting typical offerings for roles in global tech companies operating in Japan, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being, professional development, and comprehensive social security. Flexible working hours are a significant advantage for research roles that may require non-standard schedules.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Technology, Mobility Services, Smart City Development, Software Platforms. Company Size: Over 1,000 employees (as of recent LinkedIn data). Founded: Woven by Toyota was established in 2018, building on Toyota's long history of innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Inventor UX team is part of the Inventor Acceleration and Services organization within Woven City Management.
• This structure implies a dedicated support function for external or internal "inventors" developing new mobility solutions or technologies within the Woven City ecosystem.
• Collaboration is expected to be cross-functional, involving product managers, designers, engineers, and potentially city management personnel.

Methodology:

• Human-centric innovation is a core principle, driving the development of mobility solutions that benefit society.
• Emphasis on applied research and data-driven decision-making to validate new technologies and services.
• A "Living Laboratory™" approach for Woven City means continuous iteration, experimentation, and learning in a real-world urban environment.
• Collaboration and co-creation are integral to the company's mission, fostering an environment where diverse ideas can be developed and tested.

Company Website: https://woven.toyota/en and https://www.woven-city.global/

📝 Enhancement Note: Woven by Toyota is positioned at the forefront of mobility innovation, aiming to transform urban living through technology. The company culture likely blends the structured, quality-focused ethos of Toyota with the agile, experimental mindset of a tech startup. The focus on "inventors" and a "living laboratory" suggests an environment that encourages bold ideas and rapid iteration.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor with potential for leadership.

• This role represents a senior position within UX Research, requiring a high degree of autonomy, strategic input, and the ability to lead complex research initiatives.
• The "Mentor" aspect suggests an expectation to guide and develop other researchers, laying a foundation for potential future team lead or management roles.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports to the Inventor UX Manager within the Inventor Acceleration and Services organization.
• Close collaboration with product, design, and technology teams, as well as external inventors.

Operations Impact:

• The role directly impacts the success of inventor-led experiments and the development of new mobility solutions by providing crucial user insights.
• By ensuring user-centricity and rigorous validation, this researcher helps de-risk new technologies and accelerate their adoption and refinement within the Woven City ecosystem.
• Contributions are vital for achieving the company's mission of creating a safer, more sustainable, and more enjoyable mobility future.

Growth Opportunities:

• Deepen expertise in specialized research areas like XR, biometrics, and robotics within a cutting-edge mobility context.
• Develop leadership skills through mentoring and leading research projects, potentially progressing to a Team Lead or Managerial position in UX Research.
• Gain exposure to a wide range of emerging technologies and business models within the smart city and mobility sectors.
• Expand professional network by collaborating with a diverse group of global inventors and industry experts.
• Opportunities for continuous learning through in-house training programs and potential involvement in industry conferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity for a seasoned UX researcher to make a significant impact on the future of mobility. The growth path is clear, emphasizing both specialized technical development and leadership potential within a rapidly evolving field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space designed to foster innovation and interdisciplinary teamwork. Office Location(s): Tokyo, Japan. The specific location within Tokyo would likely be in a hub conducive to tech innovation and mobility development.

Workspace Context:

• A highly collaborative environment where interaction with diverse teams (product, engineering, design, city management) and external inventors is frequent.
• Access to advanced research tools and technology, including potential for VR/AR labs and biometric data collection equipment.
• An atmosphere that encourages experimentation, learning from failure, and continuous improvement, aligned with the "Living Laboratory™" ethos.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible working hours are offered, allowing researchers to manage their time effectively, especially when coordinating with inventors across different time zones or working on time-sensitive experiments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at Woven by Toyota is expected to be dynamic and forward-thinking, reflecting its mission. The emphasis on collaboration and access to cutting-edge technology will be appealing to researchers who thrive in innovative settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screen: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and conduct a brief screening call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth discussions focusing on UX research methodologies, experimental design, data analysis techniques, and experience with relevant technologies (VR, biometrics, robotics).
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates will present their portfolio, detailing specific research projects, challenges, methodologies used, and the impact of their work. This is a critical step.
• Stakeholder/Team Interviews: Meetings with potential peers, cross-functional team members, and the Inventor UX Manager to evaluate collaboration skills, strategic thinking, and alignment with team dynamics.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, strategic vision, and long-term contributions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your expertise in experimental research, diverse methodologies, and client-facing consulting.
• Structure for Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role and responsibilities, the research questions, methodologies employed, key findings, actionable recommendations, and the tangible outcomes or impact.
• Showcase Technical Breadth: Include examples of research involving emerging technologies like VR, biometrics, or robotics if applicable. If not, highlight your ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technological domains.
• Quantify Results: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your research on product decisions, user experience improvements, or experimental success.
• Explain Your Process: Be prepared to walk through your thought process, decision-making, and how you adapted your approach based on project constraints or evolving needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Methodology Deep Dive: Be prepared to discuss the nuances of various research methods, when to use them, and how to mitigate potential biases.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate hypothetical research challenges related to early-stage product experimentation in mobility or robotics and outline your approach.
• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating complex research findings to non-expert audiences and discuss strategies for gaining buy-in for recommendations.
• Japanese/English Communication: If the interview is conducted in both languages, be ready to switch seamlessly and demonstrate fluency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application and the ability to translate research into tangible results. A strong, well-prepared portfolio is paramount, and candidates should be ready to articulate their strategic contributions and adaptability to new technologies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Research Platforms: Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms for survey creation and distribution.
• Data Analysis Tools: Experience with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, Python with libraries like Pandas, NumPy, SciPy), Databricks for large-scale data processing.
• Qualitative Analysis Software: Tools for thematic analysis, affinity mapping (e.g., Miro, Mural, Dovetail).
• Prototyping/Testing Tools: Figma, Adobe XD, InVision for interactive prototypes where applicable.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BI Tools: Tableau, Power BI for data visualization and dashboard creation to present research findings.
• Collaboration/Documentation: Confluence, Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) for documentation, reporting, and team collaboration.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable as this is a research role, but understanding how user data flows from CRMs or other systems into research databases could be beneficial.
• Experimental Design Platforms: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with tools that facilitate A/B testing or multivariate testing design might be a plus for product experimentation context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with a range of research and data analysis tools is expected. The mention of Databricks, Python, and R suggests a need for advanced analytical capabilities, particularly for handling large datasets common in experimental product development.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centric Innovation: A deep commitment to understanding and serving human needs, driving the development of mobility solutions that enhance well-being.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Relying on rigorous research and analysis to inform strategy, validate hypotheses, and measure impact.
• Collaboration & Co-creation: Fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teams work together to achieve shared goals.
• Continuous Improvement: An ethos of learning, iterating, and constantly seeking better ways to conduct research, develop products, and serve users.
• Embracing the Future: A forward-thinking mindset, unafraid to explore and experiment with emerging technologies to shape the future of mobility.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly cross-functional, working closely with product managers, designers, engineers, and external inventors.
• Emphasis on clear, open communication and active listening to ensure alignment and shared understanding.
• A culture that encourages constructive feedback and knowledge sharing to elevate collective research expertise.
• Proactive engagement with stakeholders to integrate research insights seamlessly into the product development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is built around innovation, human impact, and a collaborative spirit, echoing the broader mission of Woven by Toyota. The values emphasize a blend of scientific rigor and creative exploration, essential for success in a cutting-edge R&D environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Novel Technologies: Working with nascent technologies (VR, advanced robotics, autonomous systems) may involve unique research challenges, undefined user behaviors, and limited established best practices.
• Supporting Diverse Inventors: Effectively collaborating with and supporting a wide range of internal and external inventors, each with unique goals and technical backgrounds.
• Data Integration from Multiple Sources: Synthesizing insights from diverse research methods, including qualitative feedback, quantitative data, and potentially biometric metrics, into a cohesive understanding.
• Defining Success Metrics for Early-Stage Experiments: Establishing meaningful metrics for Proofs of Concept that may not have clear market comparables.
• Balancing Rigor with Speed: Delivering robust research insights in a fast-paced, experimental environment where rapid iteration is key.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Research Skills: Deepen expertise in areas like XR research, psychophysiological measurement, and human-robot interaction.
• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Gain in-depth understanding of robotics, AI, software platforms, and urban mobility systems.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Develop skills in guiding research teams, mentoring junior researchers, and influencing product strategy at a senior level.
• Industry Exposure: Engage with cutting-edge research and development in the global mobility sector.
• Professional Development: Access to in-house training for software skills, language development, and other professional growth areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant intellectual challenges due to the frontier nature of the work. However, these challenges are directly tied to substantial growth and learning opportunities within a rapidly evolving industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex product experimentation you supported. What was the hypothesis, what research methods did you employ, and how did your findings influence the experiment’s direction or outcome?"
  • Prepare a detailed case study highlighting your strategic approach, methodological choices, and the tangible impact of your research on product innovation. Emphasize data-driven decision-making.
• "How would you design a research study to evaluate the user experience of a new autonomous mobility service in a simulated urban environment using VR and biometrics?"
  • Outline your thought process for experimental design, participant selection, data collection protocols, and how you would integrate findings from different data sources.
• "Imagine you're supporting an inventor with a novel robotics application. How would you approach understanding potential user needs and concerns, given the technology is still in its early stages?"
  • Discuss your methods for exploratory research, stakeholder interviews, and how you would manage ambiguity and adapt your approach.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Woven by Toyota and our mission to transform mobility?"
  • Research the company's vision, values, and current projects. Connect your passion for UX research and innovation to their goals.
• "How do you approach collaboration with stakeholders who may have different priorities or levels of research understanding?"
  • Share examples of your experience managing expectations, communicating research effectively, and building consensus.
• "How do you stay current with emerging technologies and research methodologies in fields like XR, robotics, and mobility?"
  • Discuss your continuous learning habits, professional networks, and any personal projects or research you undertake.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the business problem, your specific contribution, the research process, key insights, and the measurable impact.
• Tell a Story: Structure your presentations to flow logically, guiding the interviewer through your problem-solving journey.
• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your methodology, data analysis, and decision-making rationale.
• Demonstrate Adaptability: Highlight instances where you successfully adapted your research approach to novel technologies or challenging constraints.
• Showcase Bilingual Proficiency: If comfortable, integrate Japanese and English naturally during your presentation, especially if discussing projects relevant to the Japanese market or collaborators.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of deep research expertise, strategic thinking, adaptability to new technologies, and strong communication skills in both English and Japanese. The portfolio presentation is a critical component.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Researcher position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.lever.co.
• Curate your resume and portfolio: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of UX research experience, client-facing roles, and proficiency in qualitative and quantitative methods, as well as any experience with VR, robotics, or mobility. Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and specifically showcases projects relevant to product experimentation and innovative technologies.
• Prepare your portfolio presentation: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that demonstrate your ability to design and execute research for experimental products, analyze complex data, and provide actionable recommendations. Practice articulating your process, findings, and impact clearly and concisely.
• Research Woven by Toyota and Woven City: Understand the company's mission, values, and current projects. Familiarize yourself with their approach to mobility and smart city development to articulate your motivation and cultural fit.
• Practice interview questions: Prepare answers for common UX research, behavioral, and situational questions, paying close attention to those that assess your ability to work with inventors, handle emerging technologies, and communicate effectively in both English and Japanese.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.