Principal UX Researcher
The Home Depot
Atlanta, Georgia

Kristel Yu Tiamco Bayani Topping began her academic journey at Emory’s Oxford College, where she quickly embraced leadership roles and developed a passion for neuroscience. After earning a biology degree from Emory, she continued in neuroscience research while mentoring as a teaching assistant at Georgia State University in Atlanta. Immediately after earning her master of science degree, she pursued a PhD in cognitive neuroscience at Georgia Tech, excelling in research and teaching, publishing three first-author papers, and earning teaching awards.

Topping is now a principal UX researcher at The Home Depot, where she leads research-driven strategies and has received two executive awards since starting in 2021. Emory fostered her leadership potential, enhancing her ability to influence teams through research-backed thinking, a passion for data, and a love of learning.

Topping enjoys spending time with her husband and their 3-year-old daughter (another child on the way!) They love exposing their daughter to new experiences such as dancing and swimming, and spending time with their Emory friends and their children. She finds fulfillment in her work by championing respect for all people, a guiding principle at The Home Depot. Her passion for neuroscience was inspired by her brother with autism, and she developed a deep respect for diverse cognitive processes and ways of thinking. As a principal user experience researcher, she uses empathy and compassion to advocate for both customers and associates, enhancing the company’s work environment.

She says Emory provided a safe environment to step out of her comfort zone and find her voice. At Emory, she enhanced her ability to influence, mentor, and lead which she uses today as a professional.