WL S24 | Research Assistant HiLo Lab
Overview of duties
Students will gain hands on experience working with materials, analog and digital tools, and computer programming and 3D modelling. Each hire will be assisting Associate Professor Blair Satterfield in ongoing applied architectural research projects. The work focuses specifically on the application of digital and analog fabrication techniques for designing buildings and assemblies that use recycled or reconstituted waste materials for construction. Students will be working directly with Professor Satterfield doing materials testing and application, evaluating that material, and assisting in the academic dissemination of the work. The team will also design and build prototypes, and execute small construction projects using the tools and techniques developed.
Qualifications
Students should possess an ability to work with materials, tools (analog and digital), and software for visualization and modelling. Proficiency using Rhino, Grasshopper, and Creative Suite are all required. The ability to use and/or interface with digital fabrication equipment, do basic wiring, programming, Arduino, etc. is also desired. The ability to critically assess, discuss, and present conceptual design ideas and connect them to practical and applied output is also a must.
Desired Skills:
– Building Materials
– Rhino 3D and associated plug-ins
– Digital fabrication
– Tooling
Students will be selected based on skill level and facility. Current Students in an Undergraduate Program, Current Students in a Master Program, Current Students in a PhD Program are all eligible. Fit is most important.
Students should be interested and capable in architectural design, structures, material assembly, and production. Students will be using analog and digital tool and the software that drives them and should be engaged in the processes associated with architectural production. Students must be able to work independently when required, but they should be very comfortable in collaborative groups that include faculty, other students, staff, and professionals. The work requires rigorous self-starters with good attention to detail. Student workers must be capable of critical thinking at a high level, as the work involves sophisticated conceptual design as well as the ability to connect conceptual ideas to practical outcomes. Students should be able to think spatially and to translate designs into built material constructs. Finally, some of the work conducted requires repetition and very controlled and rigorous processes (materials strength testing for example).
Application deadline
How to apply
Please submit CV and cover letter to Blair Satterfield at bsatterfield@sala.ubc.ca