Allie Tollaksen is an experienced researcher with a diverse background in cognitive studies, methodology, and design. Tollaksen holds a Master of Arts degree in Social Sciences from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Poverty Studies from the University of Notre Dame.

Her professional career started as an intern at Growing Power Inc. which later led her to become an associate researcher in UX at Ipsos North America. She has also worked at NORC at the University of Chicago as a survey specialist and at the Cognition, Learning, and Development Lab at the University of Notre Dame as a research assistant.

Tollaksen gained practical experience in family support, working as a family support specialist and program consultant at Children's Wisconsin and eventually becoming a family support supervisor. Her diverse background and experience make her a well-rounded researcher with a keen eye for detail.

Her interests lie in cognition, especially in relation to learning and development. She also has excellent skills in design thinking and methodology. Tollaksen is constantly striving to translate her research into practical solutions for individuals and communities.