Editorial Illustration in STEM

Special Topics: Editorial Illustration in STEM (Summer Studio Course – 2 Credits, Unpaid; SMFA Students Only)

The School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts is seeking SMFA students to participate in an experiential summer studio course focused on editorial illustration for STEM research. Students will create original, interpretive visual artwork that communicates ongoing scientific research within the School of Engineering. This is a client‑based, collaborative role in which students partner with engineering labs to develop a portfolio of narrative and concept‑driven visual pieces that translate complex scientific ideas into accessible visual formats. Completed artwork may be shared publicly when feasible, with full credit to the student artist.

Participants are expected to attend weekly meetings with Lab leaders and faculty supervisors and to complete two sets of assignments over the summer semester. Meetings will include both in‑person and Zoom sessions, with scheduling based on Lab availability and student availability.

Ideal candidates are inventive image‑makers with strong portfolios in abstract, figurative, or narrative visual work. Proficiency in one or more media—such as drawing, painting, watercolor, Procreate, 3D modeling, generative imaging, photography, or photomanipulation—is strongly preferred. Students must be reliable, responsive communicators who can meet deadlines, work professionally within a client‑based model, and incorporate feedback constructively.

This opportunity is open to SMFA students in their 3rd year or above. Students will receive 2 studio credits (pass/ fail) and will be billed tuition for those credits. This is an unpaid opportunity.

The summer session runs 5/20-8/14.  Students are expected to work 100 hours to receive their 2 credits. Exact schedules are flexible depending on students' travel plans and work schedules. 

Questions? Email Chantal Zakari at chantal.zakari@tufts.edu