Research Intern

Location: In person
Duration: 3 months (extendable)
Commitment: Part-time / Full-time (flexible)
Reports to: Project Lead / Architect

This role supports early-stage research for projects that explore architecture beyond buildings, where spatial design intersects with livelihoods, sustainability, culture, and long-term resilience.

Rather than jumping quickly into form-making, this position focuses on understanding systems before solutions. The intern will help build the research foundation that informs future spatial strategies, pilot projects, and community-led initiatives.

Role Overview

We are seeking an Architectural Research Intern who is comfortable working with complexity, uncertainty, and open-ended questions. This role is research-led and reflective, suited for someone who values depth over speed and context over aesthetics.

Key Responsibilities

Place & Community Research

• Research local contexts: geography, climate, ecology, and cultural patterns

• Study existing livelihood structures and economic ecosystems

• Map stakeholders, value chains, and informal systems

• Review ethical precedents in community-based and place-led development

Spatial & Architectural Research

• Document vernacular architecture, spatial patterns, and material logic

• Research adaptable, low-cost, and locally appropriate building systems

• Study precedents in rural, peri-urban, and alternative development models

• Support early spatial frameworks without premature design resolution

Systems & Sustainability Research

• Explore sustainable livelihood models beyond short-term economic fixes

• Research renewable energy access, circular systems, and resource equity

• Evaluate long-term viability, governance, and ownership structures

• Identify gaps between policy, infrastructure, and on-the-ground realities

Synthesis & Communication

• Translate research into clear frameworks, diagrams, and written insights

• Support strategy documents, concept narratives, and internal briefs

• Assist in communicating complex ideas simply and responsibly

Who This Role Is For

• Students or graduates in architecture, urban design, sustainability, or related fields

• Curious, reflective thinkers who can sit with ambiguity

• Researchers who enjoy connecting spatial thinking with social and economic systems

• Individuals interested in ethical, long-term, place-based work

Skills & Tools

• Research writing and synthesis

• Diagramming and systems thinking

• Adobe InDesign / Illustrator (for research communication)

• Basic architectural literacy (plans, sections, spatial logic)

What You’ll Gain

• Exposure to architectural thinking at a strategic and systems level

• Experience working on research that informs real-world decisions

• Portfolio material that demonstrates depth, rigour, and clarity

• Mentorship in values-driven, long-term practice

How to Apply

Please share:

• CV

• Portfolio