EUReCA! Student Assistant in Architectural Design and Material Research
The EURēCA! Student Assistants Program provides introductory opportunities for CU Denver undergraduates to engage in research and creative activities. Students MUST complete the EURēCA! Presentation and Quizzes in Canvas (30min) to apply for all EURēCA! positions. Register Here.
For more information, view visual guide: Applying for EURēCA! on Handshake, learn more on the EURēCA! Program Website, or email undergrad.research@ucdenver.edu.
Employer/Dept: University of Colorado Denver/ Department of Department of Architecture
Supervisor: Alex Yueyan Li, M. Arch
Job Title: EUReCA! Student Assistant in Architectural Design and Material Research
Job Location/Address: CU Denver / This position is for on-campus only.
Purpose: The research assistants will work in a highly collaborative and supportive environment to research the material dimension of architecture. Under the guidance of a team leader, the student will communicate with various external experts and provide support for the internal development of design-driven research. Learn more.
Position Description: The research assistants will conduct cutting-edge material research with the goal of expanding new possibilities for sustainability-driven, resource-aware architecture. This work-study employee will be involved in various aspects of design, research, and implementation, including initial conceptualization, iterative design, physical studies, and production. The student assistants will also have the opportunity to work with various stakeholders in project meetings.
Duties and Responsibilities: Duties may include critical material research, writing, iterative design, orthographical drawings, high-quality physical model-making, communication with internal team members, collaboration with fabricators and other stakeholders, and presentation preparation.
Skills and Knowledge Gained:
- Critical Thinking
- Research Skills
- Communication with internal and external experts
- Design Management
- Construction and Material Research Skills
- Project Planning
- Fabrication Expertise
- Professional Practice of Architecture
- Knowledge of Construction Materials
Minimum Qualifications:
- Strong Work Ethic
- Detail-oriented
- Proactive in Clear Communication
- Organizational Skills
- Self-motivated Thinker
- Willingness to learn
- Working knowledge of Rhino
- Adobe Photoshop Illustrator
- Laser cutter, 3d printing, and CNC
Preferred Qualifications: Previous knowledge of fabrication skills, ability to design iteratively, effective communication, and proficiency in writing
Position Commitment: 10 hrs./week (dependent on work-study award)
Length of Employment:
This position is available for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026, employment may continue at Professor Li’s discretion. Please reach out to alexyueyan.li@ucdenver.edu with any questions. If both mentor and mentee agree, students can apply to continue with EURēCA! for a second year.
Application Requirements:
- Resume with 2-3 reference names (no letter needed)
- Cover letter
- Unofficial Transcripts
- Pdf of design portfolio
- Complete 2025-2026 FAFSA or CASFA and attach one of the following:
- Screenshot of email from Financial Aid stating potential work-study eligibility
- Screenshot of current 25/26 Work-Study award amount in Student Portal
- Statement on other status (e.g. international student)
- Learn more about work-study here. Please note: limited hourly funding is available, email undergrad.research@ucdenver.edu with questions about your status.