Tarah Raldiris

About Tarah Raldiris

I am a former academic, turned research operations analyst. In my current role at SAIC, I work closely with TSA HQ to design & conduct field studies, where I then analyze data and report on findings. Broadly, I work to assist the TSA in ensuring that systems are functioning properly, and that passenger processes in the checkpoint are continuously being improved. In early 2023, I co-founded EvolveWell Research Partners (evolvewellresearch.com). I have a passion for applied research, and using my expertise to help companies grow by validating their products has been a wonderful way to see research in action.Prior to EvolveWell, I was a psychology professor focused on health, aging, sleep, and well-being. The courses I have taught include Research Methods, Health Psychology, Psychology of Aging, Science of Sleep, Psychology of Dementia, Social Psychology, and Lifespan Development. Despite having left my faculty position, I truly love teaching, and you will likely see many of my posts here on LinkedIn use a pedagogical approach. And I hope to see you engage with those posts!I have experience in designing and launching a variety of research projects, ranging from consumer insights research to randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Largely, my expertise focuses on the intersection between aging, health, and well-being, and I particularly enjoy working with companies who share a similar vision. Some personal things about me:• I am a huge dog-lover and structure my life around spending as much time as possible with my three cattle dogs, Lila, Evie, and Harper. • I regularly advocate for us to be a more grief-literate society.• I believe being open, honest, and vulnerable is key to building more sincere and lasting relationships with others. • Not only do I have professional expertise in sleep, but I would say I’m a bit a world-class sleeper as well. You will never see me not prioritizing my sleep.• I love a high-quality espresso.Let\'s connect and collaborate! I\'m always excited to engage in conversations about aging, health psychology, research, dogs, and everything in between-Email: t••••••••@gmail.com

Experience

1. Senior Operations Research Analyst

   SAIC

   Mar 2024 — Present

   As a Senior Operations Research Analyst specializing in transportation security, I partner with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to evaluate and enhance security checkpoint operations and technologies. I oversee the collection and review of data, and apply advanced analytical techniques to identify trends and insights that inform strategic improvements and recommendations for the TSA.

Education

• Wilkes Honors College, Florida Atlantic University

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Psychology

  2007 — 2011

• Virginia Commonwealth University

  Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Social Psychology

  2015

• Penn State University

  Master of Arts (M.A.), Applied Psychological Research

  2012 — 2014