Research Associate in Computational Design and Digital Fabrication (Onsite)

University of Michigan; Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 63,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor seeks a Research Associate in Computational Design and Digital Fabrication to work in the FabLab on robotic 3D printing processes for concrete and clay. You will collaborate across disciplines on full-scale construction projects and conduct tests for performance data collection.

The role is full-time and onsite five days a week, with daytime hours Monday through Friday. Salary is $70,000 with benefits; located in Ann Arbor, MI.

Qualifications

• Master's degree (MS) or equivalent experience in concrete and clay 3D printing research, robotic programming, architectural design
• Software proficiency: Rhino, Grasshopper (or scripting), Adobe suite (including video processing)
• Experience in performance testing and data capture (bench scale and/or assembly level)
• Experience with design integration and performance-based computational analysis
• Proficient in project coordination and management (logistics, deadlines)
• Prior experience in building and/or architecture practice is a plus

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental research on 3D printing and climate-based research
• Conduct experiments for performance data capture, analyze data, and work iteratively with prototyping processes
• Prepare presentations, graphics, diagrams, videos, and reports
• Apply research skills for literature review, writing, and design work

Skills

Data capture

Performance testing

Collaboration

Project coordination

Education

Master's degree (MS) or equivalent experience in related field

Tools

Rhino

Grasshopper

Adobe Suite

Job description

Research Associate in Computational Design and Digital Fabrication (Onsite)

The review will begin when the posting closes. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted via email. The interview process will consist of an initial 30-45 minute screening interview and one or two additional interviews for select candidates. Additionally, samples of relevant work may be requested.

Job Summary

The Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning is looking for a research associate in computational design and digital fabrication. Reporting to Tsz Yan Ng, associate professor of architecture, you will work on robotic 3D printing processes such as concrete and clay printing. You will work in the digital fabrication lab (FabLab) for full-scale construction projects and conduct several types of testing for performance data collection. We are looking for an organized individual, comfortable working collaboratively with other disciplines and large teams (i.e. engineering, design, bioengineering, environmental science, landscape architecture).

This job is situated onsite in Ann Arbor and in-person work is expected five days a week. The anticipated schedule for this position is daytime hours Monday through Friday (exact schedule to be determined with your supervisor). This is a full-time, term-limited position for one year.

Responsibilities*

• Conduct experimental research on 3D printing and climate-based research
• Conduct experiments for performance data capture, analyze data, and work iteratively with prototyping processes
• Prepare presentations, graphics, diagrams, videos, and reports
• Apply research skills for literature review, writing, and design work

Required Qualifications*

• Master's degree (MS) or equivalent experience in one of the following: concrete and clay 3D printing research, robotic programming, architectural design
• Software proficiency: Rhino, Grasshopper (or other scripting capabilities), Adobe suite (including video processing)
• Experience in performance testing and data capture (bench scale and/or assembly level)
• Experience with design integration and performance-based computational analysis
• Proficient in project coordination and management (logistics, deadlines, etc.)
• Prior experience in building and/or architecture practice a plus

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .

Additional Information

This position is term-limited for one year, with the possibility of extension, subject to organizational needs, performance evaluations, and secured funding. The salary for this position is $70,000. Factors used to determine salary include experience, knowledge and skills for the position. You are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor transparency throughout the recruiting process.

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, U-M offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family, and plan for a secure future. Benefits include generous time off; retirement plan with two-for-one matching contributions after the first year; many choices for comprehensive health insurance; life insurance; long-term disability coverage; and flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses. Learn more about U-M benefits .

Please note:

• Relocation assistance is not provided for this position.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. Applicants will not be sponsored for work visas.

Our Shared Values
We aim to create a community of mutual respect and trust where everyone's backgrounds, identities, and views are represented without any threat of bias, harassment, intimidation, or discrimination. Learn more about the shared values we have for our community .

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.