Principal UX Researcher

Upstart is an AI lending marketplace that partners with banks and credit unions to expand access to affordable credit. This Principal UX Researcher role establishes Upstart's dedicated UX research practice from the ground up, reporting to the VP of Product Design. WHAT YOU'LL DO • Define how UX research gets done — establish methodologies, standards, and tooling for product teams • Lead cross-functional research initiatives that influence product strategy • Enable designers and PMs through research toolkits and best practices • Build research infrastructure including participant recruiting and insight management systems • Ensure research integration in regulated financial services environments WHO YOU ARE • 8+ years conducting UX research using qualitative and quantitative methods • Proven experience building or scaling a UX research practice • Track record influencing product strategy through research insights • Background in financial services or fintech is a plus • Experience with AI-assisted research tools and comfort with sensitive data environments