Research Assistant - Indigenous Practices & Land-Based Technologies in Art & Design Education

About the role

The New School, through Parsons School of Design, is looking for a part-time research assistant to help develop curricular-based educational opportunities that prioritize Indigenous material practices, relational making methods and land-based technologies in art and design education. The role covers research, curriculum development, archival investigation, material experimentation and community engagement, and offers students hands-on experience in collaborative research, pedagogical development and community-centered design within higher education.

Key responsibilities

• Research Indigenous material practices, craft traditions and land-based technologies
• Assist with pedagogical development for workshops, educational programming and learning resources
• Carry out archival and visual research on Indigenous fashion, art and design methodologies
• Compile annotated bibliographies, teaching resources and reference materials
• Help with material experimentation and its documentation
• Coordinate communication and scheduling with faculty, students, artists and community collaborators
• Support event planning, workshop preparation and public programming
• Maintain records of research findings, project timelines and educational resources

Required profile

• Current graduate or undergraduate student at Parsons School of Design
• Interest in Indigenous studies, art and design education, material culture, fashion or socially engaged practices
• Strong research, writing and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Experience with archival research, curriculum development or community-based practices is an asset

Work conditions

• Part-time, hybrid/split schedule with regular on-campus presence (for example 1-4 times per week) and some remote work
• Hourly rate of $31.37, covered by a collective bargaining agreement