Shumka Centre is seeking two qualified students for Research Assistant (RA) positions for a partnered industry research project with Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (CSBP). Running from February to May 2026, this project focuses on the development of small-scale, tactile, 3D-printed sculptural artefacts integrated into guest-facing interpretive panels across the park. RAs will work for up to 14 hours per week across 15 weeks with some work/meetings being done in-person in Vancouver and some remotely.

This project is a collaboration with CSBP’s Storytelling and Show Team and explores how tactile sculptural design and digital fabrication can support experiential learning, accessibility, and intergenerational engagement in outdoor tourism environments. RAs will form a small, focused research team with ECU sessional faculty Jennifer Woodin and Erik Asia—working closely with CSBP staff to translate ecological narratives and existing concepts into durable, touchable, production-ready 3D artworks.

This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in applied design research, 3D modelling, and fabrication workflows, contributing to a real-world project in one of British Columbia’s most prominent cultural tourism destinations.

View the full call on The Leeway
Deadline to Apply: 5PM PDT on January 20, 2026

Role

• Meet regularly with the Project Team to establish project deliverables and working processes, and work collaboratively to solve creative and technical challenges (both in-person and virtually);
• Create and refine 3D models for tactile sculptures based on provided concepts, drawings, and feedback;
• Use SolidWorks, Rhino 3D, and/or Blender to develop clean, well-organized, and fabrication-ready files;
• Assist with adapting designs for tactile clarity, durability, and accessibility, including considerations of scale, surface detail, and edge conditions;
• Prepare models for prototyping, 3D printing, CNC milling, or other fabrication methods as required;
• Work in phased sprints aligned with research, concept development, prototyping, and refinement stages;
• Participate in regular check-ins, critiques, and revision cycles with faculty and CSBP partners;
• Organize and document digital files according to project standards and timelines;
• Contribute to final documentation and a closing presentation sharing outcomes and learnings with project partners.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, RAs should be able to:

• Apply iterative design and modelling methods to tactile, public-facing sculptural work;
• Translate conceptual and ecological narratives into clear, accessible 3D forms;
• Develop fabrication-ready digital assets for real-world production contexts;
• Understand material, durability, and safety considerations for outdoor installations;
• Practice collaborative problem-solving within an academic–industry research environment;
• Communicate creative rationale, technical decisions, and research insights through documentation and presentation;
• Build confidence navigating professional workflows, feedback, and production constraints through applied research and partnered collaboration;
• Engage with an external partner (CSBP Show Team & Staff) as part of a creative ecosystem beyond the university;
• Manage time efficiently and work effectively in teams or individually, as required.

Qualifications

Candidates must possess the following to be considered for this position:

• Be enrolled at Emily Carr University of Art + Design (MDes or MFA program, 3rd or 4th year Art or Design major) with a GPA of 3.0 or higher OR be a recent graduate within 12 months;
• Demonstrate experience with 3D modelling software, specifically SolidWorks, Rhino 3D, and/or Blender;
• Show strong attention to form, proportion, and detail;
• Ability to interpret conceptual direction and respond constructively to iterative feedback;
• Have a basic understanding of materials and fabrication processes (or a strong willingness to learn);
• Possess strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills;
• Be able to work independently and adapt to evolving project requirements;
• Have access to their own laptop;
• Must be available to meet in-person and remotely with company teams and the internal research group as needed;
• Participate in a final project presentation in May 2026.

Nice-to-Haves

• Experience with tactile, accessibility-focused, or inclusive design
• Familiarity with 3D printing, CNC milling, or digital fabrication workflows
• Background in sculpture, product design, or exhibition design

For information on compensation and how to apply, visit The Leeway.

Please note that this opportunity is funded through external sources (e.g., research grants and/or partner contributions). Hiring may be delayed, modified, or withdrawn in the event of changes to grant availability or partner commitments.