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.

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.

The role also includes supervision and support for researchers and students working within the knitting lab, and direct communication with project collaborators within industry and academia.

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, running through June 2027 with the possibility of renewal based on funding and performance in the role.

• 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.

• 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.)

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.

The salary range for this position is $62,000 - $65,000. 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.
   

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