Research Specialist in Advanced Knitting

Job Summary

The Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning is looking for a researcher in computational design and advanced knitting that will work across projects ranging from industry collaborations to academic research. Reporting to Sean Ahlquist, associate professor of architecture, you will work on the following research areas:

• Development of computational design and fabrication tools for advanced knitting
• Exploration of knitting techniques to develop responsive, sensory-rich multi-material textiles
• Design of electronic sensing and actuating devices as part of interactive and adaptive textile material systems
• Development of prototypes from the scale of wearables to architectural environments.

Responsibilities

Operation of a variety of industrial knitting machines and related equipment, including Stoll and Shima Seiki knitting machines, AGTEKS yarn-winding machine and ancillary devices such as a linking-machine and manual flat-bed knitting machines.
Design, programming and fabrication of complex multi-material knit structures
Collaboration with industry, faculty and community partners for material design, testing, exhibition and prototyping of work.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent experience in advanced knitting and computational design
• Experience with machine-knitting operation and maintenance
• Experience as part of a multi-disciplinary research team
• Proficient in project coordination (logistics, deadlines, etc.)

Modes of Work

The work requires, or the supervisor approves a fully onsite presence. Onsite is defined as a designated U-M owned or leased work location within or outside of the State of Michigan.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $62,000 - $65,000. Factors used to determine salary include experience, knowledge and skills for the position.

Schedule

This is a full-time, term-limited position, running through June 2027 with the possibility of renewal based on funding and performance in the role.

Benefits

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.

Additional Information

You are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor transparency throughout the recruiting process.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit one PDF (500kb size limit) containing the following: Curriculum Vitae, Statement of Interest (2 page maximum at minimum 10pt font), outlining qualifications, experience, research domain(s), including professional and academic experience, and near term goals, Link to a portfolio, containing relevant design work done professionally and/or academically and showcasing technical knitting skills (10 pages maximum), Names of 3 references, their affiliations, and contact information. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted via email. The interview process will consist of one or two 30-45 minutes interviews for select candidates. Additionally, further samples of relevant work may be requested.