Shelby is an award-winning Post-Graduate Researcher in the School of Museum Studies at the University of Leicester, where she is pursuing a PhD with the project titled "Enhancing Accessibility and Inclusivity for Autistic Individuals in Museum Digital Culture and Extended Reality Experiences." Her work is rooted in disability rights and ethical, collaborative research practices, and she is a fellow of the Institute for Digital Culture. Shelby's transdisciplinary approach is driven by her multidisciplinary background in the museums & heritage, education, user technology, and academic research sectors.Shelby holds a BSc in Anthropology and Archaeology from Portland State University and an MA in Museum & Artefact Studies from Durham University, where she earned a Distinction. In addition to her academic achievements, Shelby has 11 years of experience in the technology sector, having worked with Apple Inc. in various roles, including Mobile Technician and Creative. At Apple, she found joy in combining technical expertise with creative teaching, mentoring young creatives and guiding seasoned artists in digital forms. She also worked as a Database Systems Coordinator at Rockefeller University, where she developed strong communication and teamwork skills. These roles helped her discover a passion for making complex concepts more accessible and engaging, a thread that runs through her diverse career.Shelby also gained two years of professional teaching experience at an International Academy in Seoul, South Korea, where she developed a humanities-based curriculum, taught arts and heritage studies, and led a workshop on archaeological methods. This experience solidified her belief in the power of education to inspire and create lasting impact.Currently, Shelby is conducting her digital accessibility PhD fieldwork in collaboration with the Jewry Wall Museum and MBD Studios in Leicester. She is also a Lead Exhibitions Curatorial Volunteer at the Leicester Museum & Galleries and a Freelance Digital Heritage Content Creator, growing her following on social media as @PhDShelbyAdventures. Her passion for making knowledge and culture accessible extends beyond her research as she uses her platform to engage a broader audience in the fields of digital heritage and museum studies.Throughout her career, Shelby has remained driven by a desire to learn, create, and make a positive impact. Her work, whether in academia, technology, or education, reflects a deep commitment to fostering equity, building relationships, and improving the lives of individuals.