Design Center Graduate Research Assistant

Job Description

The Design Center at Barnard College is investigating whether university makerspaces can build their own custom software for novel fabrication methods using AI, unique to their specific teaching and learning environment, without relying on specialized computer science or coding expertise. The current focus is a G-code–generating application that makes a CNC machine intuitive for beginners to use, with the approach expected to extend to additional fabrication tools such as clay 3D printers.

Responsibilities

• Systematically test the software’s settings and features across materials and use cases, documenting results in a clear, reproducible way.
• Troubleshoot the end-to-end fabrication workflow — from file generation through machine operation — and report issues, edge cases, and suggested improvements.
• Operate the CNC machine (and other fabrication tools) to validate that generated files execute correctly and safely.
• Help design and conduct user studies with student participants, including preparing protocols, running sessions, and collecting and organizing data.
• Analyze qualitative and quantitative study data and help translate findings into insights about beginner-friendly, AI-built fabrication software.
• Contribute to writing and revising a research paper for conference submission.
• Maintain organized records, notes, and documentation throughout the project.
• Present progress and findings in weekly meetings.

Skills, Qualifications & Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to work on a team in a collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with a methodical approach to testing and documentation.
• Curiosity about fabrication technology and comfort learning new tools and workflows independently.
• Ability to work independently, follow through on tasks, and communicate progress and blockers proactively.

Required Qualifications

• Current graduate student at Columbia University.
• Prior research experience.
• Some fabrication or making experience.
• Availability of 10 hours per week across the fall and spring semesters (15 weeks each), including attendance at weekly meetings.

Preferred Qualifications

• CNC and/or 3D printing experience.
• Higher education and/or teaching experience.
• Research paper writing experience, ideally toward conference or journal submission.
• Interest in pedagogy, makerspaces, or human-centered/educational technology research.