My name is

I’m a senior at Carnegie Mellon University exploring the intersection of computational biology, human-computer interaction, and education. I love turning complex problems into intuitive experiences and leveraging technology to make real-world impact.

I specialize in UX research and design, crafting user-centered solutions, and have hands-on experience in full-stack development, building tools that bridge the gap between data and action.

Through my projects, I aim to design tools that simplify workflows and help users accomplish tasks more efficiently.

Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
LinkedIn GitHub LeetCode Fiverr
Amira Johnson, Computational Biology, Human-Computer Interaction, Carnegie Mellon University

Professional Experience

Argo Ai
Argo AI

Software Engineer & Talent Acquisitions Intern

  • Python

Completed two software engineering internships—one on data analytics and another on camera perception. Also helped build Argo’s high school internship program and represented the company at career fairs.

CreateLab
CreateLab at Carnegie Mellon University

Student Researcher

  • Tableau

Conducted research on gentrification and voter education in Pittsburgh, focusing on engaging with local communities through technology.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center
UPMC Hillman Cancer Research Center

Student Researcher

  • R

Used statistical analysis to identify drugs that inhibit cancer cell metastasis. Earned 1st place at the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science in Computer Science.

Projects

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Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank Advance Choice Agency Dashboard

UX Designer, UX Researcher, Client Manager

  • Figma

I worked on redesigning the dashboard for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to make life easier for the agencies handling food distributions. I focused on simplifying workflows, improving communication, and reducing manual steps. Through user research and testing, I created a more intuitive, data-driven interface that helped users accomplish tasks faster and with less frustration.
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Autonomous Greenhouse

Programmer, Documentation

  • Python
  • Docker
  • ROS2

I worked on developing an autonomous greenhouse system that optimizes plant growth through real-time environmental monitoring and automated control. I focused on improving the precision of watering and lighting schedules, reducing human intervention, and visualizing sensor data for better decision-making. Through iterative testing and data analysis, I helped create a more efficient, sustainable growing environment that balanced technology with ecological awareness.
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Square Match Game Improvements

UX Designer, UX Researcher

  • Processing
  • Javascript

I improved the gameplay experience for the Square Match game as part of my human-centered software course. I tested and refined the controls, feedback, and visuals to make the game more engaging and enjoyable. Iterating based on user input allowed me to better understand how small UX changes can drastically improve interaction.
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Evaluating LLM-Based Prompt Engineering in AI-Assisted Song Creation

UX Researcher

  • Figma

I explored how AI tools like Suno.ai can support collaborative songwriting. My goal was to see how LLMs can help users experiment creatively, even when they aren’t trained musicians. I researched human-AI interaction, gathering insights on how AI can facilitate more meaningful creative workflows, and thought about ways to make the process feel natural and empowering for users
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ImpactLens & UCRE Word Shuffle

UX Designer, UX Researcher

  • Figma
  • Framer
  • HTML5
  • CSS
  • Javascript

I designed interactive tools that help people detect and report bias in generative AI systems. With ImpactLens, I built a dashboard and discussion space that encourages engagement and learning. I focused on making complex concepts approachable so everyday users could understand, report, and act on AI bias effectively.
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Autonomous Moped Scooter

UX/UI Designer

  • Figma

I collaborated with a team to prototype an autonomous moped scooter, designing both the physical and digital interfaces. I focused on the rider’s experience, making sure navigation, safety, and controls felt natural and intuitive. Testing and iterating with users helped me refine the interface and understand the importance of human-centered design in real-world mobility.
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Age-Modified SIR Model for Covid-19

Programmer

  • Python

I built a stochastic SIR model to simulate how COVID-19 spreads across different age groups. Programming the model taught me a lot about epidemiological dynamics and how small changes in assumptions can dramatically affect outcomes. I used this project to apply computational biology methods to real-world public health questions.
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Song Lyric Generation Model

Programmer

  • Python

I built a model that generates song lyrics using Word2Vec and Transformer architectures, experimenting with AI to mimic human creative patterns. This project deepened my understanding of natural language processing and creative machine learning applications.
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C0 Virtual Machine

Programmer

  • C

I built a compiler for a mock C language called C0. It was a deep dive into parsing, code generation, and low-level programming logic. I really enjoyed the challenge of creating something that actually runs code, and it strengthened my understanding of how programming languages and machines interact.

Are you impressed by my work? Feel free to reach out!

Amira Johnson cartoon at laptop