The University of Michigan Library's Shapiro Design Lab (SDL) seeks graduate students to become Program Assistants and help direct this ever-evolving experimental space founded on peer learning, engaged learning, and interdisciplinarity. The work of the Lab is guided by our principles and encompasses a variety of learning opportunities and projects within three different spaces, all located on the first floor of the Shapiro Undergraduate Library:
PIE Space (Prototype-Inspire-Explore):
An open area that features a Prototyping Cart, collaboration hub with 55” monitor, Design Library, whiteboards, large screens, and a repurposed vending machine, the Design-o-Matic 4000.
Media Production Rooms:
Two rooms offer a variety of tools and software that can be used for audio production, motion graphics, video post-production, CAD, graphic design.
Workshop:
An area with a number of "making" tools (letterpress, sewing machine, vinyl cutter/heat press, soldering station, laser cutter/engraver, 3D printers), as well as a collaboration hub, and whiteboards.
Roles and Responsibilities:
In conjunction with the Technology and Media Production Specialist the Program Assistant will work on the following:
- Facilitating consultations with users on Design Lab resources.
- Coordination and management of the Design Lab's Interns including scheduling meetings and training.
- Communications coordination for the Lab, including newsletter content development, designing signage for the different Lab spaces, coordinating blog posts by Design Lab staff, and working with the Library Communications’ office to best document and share the stories of the Design Lab.
- Project facilitation for internal lab activities and programs
- Assisting in the day-to-day operation of the Design Lab’s spaces (PIE Space, Media Production Rooms, and Workshop)
Program Assistants will be expected to work 15-20 hours per week at a rate of $21/hour. While much of the work may occur in the Shapiro Design Lab, some work can be facilitated remotely.
Required Qualifications:
- Current Masters student at the University of Michigan
- Dependability and accountability
- Ability to work both collaboratively and cooperatively
- Capability for initiating projects and leadership
- Ability to respond to changing needs within the Lab, given its exploratory and experimental character
- Interest in collaborating with individuals from a diversity of backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints
Desired Qualifications:
- Interest and experience in interdisciplinary scholarship and/or creative research.
- Facilitation of partnerships across campus and with the broader community outside the University
- Interest in various hands-on modes of learning
- Planning and development of dynamic learning programs and communities
Click to Apply:
Complete the google form program assistant application (including uploading your resume) by Sunday, January 22, 2023. Interviews will be on a rolling basis. If you have any questions, please email shapirodesignlab@umich.edu.