Download a PDF of my resume here.
Education
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering - beginning September 2026 - AgeLab - Ideation Lab
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
M.S. Mechanical Engineering - GPA 5.0/5.0
Graduating in May, 2026
AgeLab - Ideation Lab
Relevant Coursework: Manufacturing Processes & Systems, Structural Materials & Manufacturing, How to Make (Almost) Anything, Product Design and Development, Design Studio: Information Design and Visualization
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
B.S. Mechanical Engineering & Design - GPA 4.8/5.0
Graduated in 2024
Relevant Coursework: Human Systems Engineering, Product Engineering Processes, Design Computation, Design Studio: Objects and Interaction, Design Studio: Design Techniques and Technologies, Electronics for Mechanical Systems
Fabrication
3D scanning and printing
Machining (CNC, lathe, mill)
PCB design and milling
Programming
C++
JavaScript
MATLAB
Figma
Fusion360
Skills
Publications
Experience
Research Assistant
Laser cutting
Casting and Molding
Embedded systems
Microcontroller programming
Prototyping
Rhinoceros 3D
V-Ray for Rhino
MIT AgeLab - Product Design
June 2023 – present
Developed and prototyped packaging concepts for a smart home kit targeting older adult users.
Led user-study simulations to evaluate unboxing and installation, analyzing 19 participants’ interactions and challenges.
Coded qualitative data in Atlas.ti to identify usability themes and synthesized findings into actionable design choices.
Perkins School for the Blind
Designer
Sept. 2022 – Jan. 2023
Designed a low-cost wheelchair for children with cerebral palsy, with rapid prototyping to tackle strict resource constraints.
Conducted home interviews to understand user needs to create practical and culturally appropriate solutions.
MIT AgeLab - Service Design
Undergraduate Researcher
May 2022 – Dec. 2022
Researched and synthesized Service Design methodologies, identifying key frameworks to enhance user experience and streamline complex system interactions.
Analyzed testing methods for intangible experiences, developing user-centered design strategies grounded in empathy and realistic application.
N. Al Maalouf, C. Lee. 2026. Designing Instructions for Older Adults’ Installation of Multi-Device Smart Home Systems. HCI International, Springer.
N. Al Maalouf, C. Lee. 2026. Bridging the AgeTech Gap: The Role of Packaging in Longevity Design. Design Research Society (DRS). Under review.