Hi there, I'm Vaughan James. I'm a Ph.D.-level researcher and communications strategist who genuinely loves figuring out why people do what they do. My expertise is in full-cycle market and user research, which means I can handle everything from designing a survey or hosting a focus group to diving deep into the data. I'm highly skilled in both quantitative and qualitative analysis, and I'm not afraid of a complex dataset. I excel at developing codebooks, synthesizing findings, and, most importantly, transforming raw data into clear, actionable insights that help you make smart decisions. But for me, data is only half the story. The real magic happens when you communicate those findings in a way that connects with people. I'm an accomplished writer and presenter focused on translating complex, technical topics into content that is accessible, clear, and engaging for any audience, from experts to the general public. I've authored academic articles, written reports for state-level clients, and penned numerous public-facing articles that make sophisticated research easy to understand. Whether you need a meticulous researcher, a skilled analyst, or a clear-voiced writer to connect with your specific audience, I'd love to partner with you and bring clarity to your project.

Vaughan James

Hi there, I'm Vaughan James. I'm a Ph.D.-level researcher and communications strategist who genuinely loves figuring out why people do what they do. My expertise is in full-cycle market and user research, which means I can handle everything from designing a survey or hosting a focus group to diving deep into the data. I'm highly skilled in both quantitative and qualitative analysis, and I'm not afraid of a complex dataset. I excel at developing codebooks, synthesizing findings, and, most importantly, transforming raw data into clear, actionable insights that help you make smart decisions. But for me, data is only half the story. The real magic happens when you communicate those findings in a way that connects with people. I'm an accomplished writer and presenter focused on translating complex, technical topics into content that is accessible, clear, and engaging for any audience, from experts to the general public. I've authored academic articles, written reports for state-level clients, and penned numerous public-facing articles that make sophisticated research easy to understand. Whether you need a meticulous researcher, a skilled analyst, or a clear-voiced writer to connect with your specific audience, I'd love to partner with you and bring clarity to your project.

Available to hire

Hi there, I’m Vaughan James. I’m a Ph.D.-level researcher and communications strategist who genuinely loves figuring out why people do what they do. My expertise is in full-cycle market and user research, which means I can handle everything from designing a survey or hosting a focus group to diving deep into the data. I’m highly skilled in both quantitative and qualitative analysis, and I’m not afraid of a complex dataset. I excel at developing codebooks, synthesizing findings, and, most importantly, transforming raw data into clear, actionable insights that help you make smart decisions.

But for me, data is only half the story. The real magic happens when you communicate those findings in a way that connects with people. I’m an accomplished writer and presenter focused on translating complex, technical topics into content that is accessible, clear, and engaging for any audience, from experts to the general public. I’ve authored academic articles, written reports for state-level clients, and penned numerous public-facing articles that make sophisticated research easy to understand. Whether you need a meticulous researcher, a skilled analyst, or a clear-voiced writer to connect with your specific audience, I’d love to partner with you and bring clarity to your project.

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Language

English
Fluent
Japanese
Beginner

Work Experience

Research Communications Specialist at Institute for Child Health Policy, University of Florida
September 1, 2025 - September 1, 2025
Co-led end-to-end production of a $150K, 400+ page Annual Technical Report (ATR) for the State of Texas, coordinating contributions from multiple UF institutes; served as the primary client liaison, managing timelines and incorporating state revisions. Authored a key chapter on research activities and executive summary; consolidated 400+ pages into a concise, actionable list. Streamlined ATR workflow with an Asana-based portfolio; replaced manual Excel trackers with automated tasks, due dates, and a central repository for drafts and final versions. Performed comprehensive editing and ensured ADA accessibility. Led a $300K qualitative focus study redesign of a 15-year-old data collection tool for Texas Medicaid QAPI program evaluation, including a rigorous hybrid codebook and large-scale content analysis. Delivered formal presentations to stakeholders and secured client approval for the proposed methodology. Authored the 100-page final report with findings and recommendations; produced
Research Coordinator at HCA Health Care
September 1, 2024 - September 1, 2024
Primary research liaison for approximately 300 medical residents across two hospital sites; managed IRB submission processes and coordinated a portfolio of 150+ concurrent resident research projects. Connected residents with statisticians and informaticists; delivered formal training on research protocols; organized a division-wide virtual research conference; mentored resident research projects and translated clinical questions into methodological proposals. Contributed to multiple conference posters and journal articles.
Science Communications Specialist at Biodiversity Institute, University of Florida
September 1, 2024 - September 1, 2024
Continued research into informal science education effectiveness; authored public-facing science summaries and outreach materials. Led public-facing outreach initiatives, including science content at national culture venues; collaborated with UF’s Biodiversity Institute and Hinkley Center on cross-campus collaborations. Designed and delivered outreach events; supported grant preparation for internal and external awards. Taught undergraduate STEM courses and mentored students; developed undergraduate STEM course material and outreach components.
Postdoctoral Associate at STEM Translational Communication Research Center, UF
August 1, 2023 - August 1, 2023
Assisted on multiple health and science communication research projects; contributed to research design, data collection (surveys, interviews, focus groups), analysis, and manuscript preparation; co-authored evaluation and UX sections; mentored undergraduate students; contributed to grant proposals and cross-institution collaborations.
Graduate Researcher at Lab of Dr. Andrea Sant, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester
January 1, 2012 - January 1, 2012
Conducted bench research on dendritic cell subsets during influenza A virus infection; performed immunological assays, flow cytometry, and data analysis; authored Master of Science thesis based on laboratory findings.
Graduate Assistant at STEM Translational Communication Research Center, UF
May 1, 2017 - May 1, 2017
Assisted faculty with research and teaching responsibilities; contributed to data collection and analysis for ongoing health communication studies.
Graduate Assistant at Dr. Deb Treise, College of Journalism and Communications, UF
August 1, 2015 - August 1, 2015
Supported research projects, including literature reviews and data entry; assisted with undergraduate course instruction and grading.

Education

Doctor of Philosophy at University of Florida
January 1, 2017 - December 1, 2022
Master of Arts in Mass Communication at University of Florida
August 1, 2014 - December 1, 2016
Master of Science in Immunology at University of Rochester
January 1, 2009 - January 1, 2012
Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Cell Science at University of Florida
January 1, 2002 - January 1, 2006

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Education, Healthcare, Life Sciences, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Non-Profit Organization