My CV
Work
Experience
January 2021 - Present
July 2025 - September 2025
March 2025 – June 2025
April 2023 – December 2024
PhD Researcher: UX Research (Psychology & HCI, HCR) | Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, India
• Built a conversational chatbot (Google Dialogflow + OpenAI API); designed flows and safety checks; ran remote usability testing.
• Led mixed-methods studies (interviews, surveys, & task studies); completed thematic analysis with a clear codebook and inter-rater checks.
• Ran quant analysis of validated scales and task metrics; performed moderation analysis to test effects of empathy/safety messages on disclosure and help-seeking.
• Developed a data-collection website for recruitment, consent, randomization, analytics, and anonymized storage; turned results into personas, journey maps, and actionable UX requirements.
Lead Research Psychologist (Vibe AI │ XAI Technologies Pvt Ltd)
• Chatbot conversation flow and design
• Led end-to-end UX studies (interviews, surveys, usability tests) and translated insights into product upgrades.
• Mined behavioural and emotional data to humanise chatbot replies and enhance psychological safety.
• Partnered with AI, design, and engineering to embed findings in real time, boosting user satisfaction.
Research Intern (Author Amish Tripathi│Kaaljayi media LLP)
• Conduct thorough research on various topics, ensuring proper references and citations.
​• Participate in brainstorming sessions with the team to develop creative concepts and strategies.
Co-founder and CEO (CognifAI Health Pvt Ltd)
• Founded and led an AI-driven mental health platform, enhancing counselling and therapy accessibility for adolescents and adults; hosted the CognifAI Studios podcast to promote awareness.
• Secured Startup India registration and AIIA membership, boosting credibility, industry collaboration, and government support.
• Built and managed a cross-functional team of mental health professionals, AI developers, and UI/UX designers to deliver an intuitive, user-centered mental health experience; conducted research on AI chatbot interaction and its psychological impact.
Education
29 April – 28 June 2021
2018 - 2020
2018 - 2020
Student exchange program of Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (TIET), Patiala, Punjab, India
Cross-cultural clinical psychology
Ph.D. in psychology. 9.0 CGPA 2021-(Pursuing)
Thesis: Artificial Intelligence Powered Chatbot Interaction: Impact on Loneliness and Psychological Well-being in Adolescents. Supervisor: Dr. Damanjit Sandhu (Professor) (HOD, Psychology Department and Dean, Directorate of International affairs).
January 2021 - Present
University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
Punjabi University, Patiala, India
Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (TIET), Patiala, Punjab
Masters in psychology. 7.62 SGPA
Thesis: Role of aerobic fitness and personality
Supervisor: Dr. Naveen (Assistant professor)
DAVC 10, Chandigarh, India
Bachelors of Arts
Psychology honors
Certifications/Courses
• Introduction to User Experience Principles and Processes | University of Michigan
• Conduct UX Research and Test Early Concepts | Google
• Foundations of User Experience (UX) Design | Google
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Workshops | University of Groningen, The Netherlands
Creative Problem Solver
Harshit Katoch is a dedicated UX designer with a strong passion for creating intuitive and user-friendly digital experiences. With a background in Human-Computer Interaction and certifications in UX Design, Harshit combines creativity and analytical skills to solve complex design challenges. His attention to detail and user-centric approach ensure that every project delivers a seamless and engaging experience. Harshit's expertise in prototyping and user research allows him to design innovative solutions that meet both user needs and business goals. With a commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on the latest design trends, Harshit is always ready to take on new challenges.
Skills
• UX research • User interviews • Surveys • Usability testing (moderated/unmoderated) • Heuristic evaluation • Journey mapping • Diary studies • HCI • Conversation design (chatbots) • Thematic analysis • Inter-rater reliability • Statistics (t-tests, ANOVA, regression) • SPSS • NVivo • R • MS Office/Excel • Research ethics/IRB • CBT basics • Writing & reporting