Research Assistant - 'Traces of Motherhood' Initiative Support Role

Research Assistant The Research Assistant will support Assistant Professor Anna Lerner-Zwick in multiple projects related to her research initiative, “Traces of Motherhood.” The assistant will play a key role in designing and working on a new exciting project in the field between design, medicine and function. This position is designed to be collaborative and immersive. The Research Assistant will be considered an integral part of the project, contributing meaningfully to its outcomes. Assistant Professor Lerner-Zwick is committed to providing a rich learning experience, ensuring the assistant gains substantial knowledge, skills, and insight while actively participating in the research process. Outcomes and Goals for this year: One major project for 2026/2027 focuses on a very exciting collaboration between a maternal fetal doctor in NYC and Anna Lerner-Zwick, redesigning and sampling garments for women in maternity care. In addition to that the work will also be to support the making and development of a collection to get ready for a future art exhibition around the theme of motherhood as well as supporting the next conference preparations. Here more information about the research topic: The research explores “traces of motherhood”- the intersection of textile, birth, design, and motherhood. It investigates lived experiences of motherhood and artist-life, examining how art portrays women and birth, and how women reflect on motherhood in their practice. Building on scholarship around design systems that center the female body, birthing people, and women’s rights, this work contributes to the underrepresented field of female experience in art and design, particularly suppressed voices tied to birth and care. Through craft, making, and experimental garments, the project uses textiles and material processes to reflect themes of motherhood, identity, and care. Duties & Responsibilities Conduct independently patternmaking and sewing required for the project Conduct in-depth library and archival research, including collecting, organizing, and synthesizing visual and textual materials relevant to the project’s themes. Assist in craft-based practice, including knitwear and other selected mediums, contributing to the development of creative outcomes. Support the curation, preparation, and documentation of physical creative outcomes, including exhibition preparation and installation. Provide organizational and logistical support for workshops, panel discussions, and other project-related events. Contribute to the planning and development of publications (e.g., essays, zines, or books) emerging from the project. Document research processes, project activities, and outcomes for dissemination in both academic and creative contexts. Responsibilities: The Research Assistant will support Assistant Professor Anna Lerner-Zwick in multiple projects related to her research initiative, “Traces of Motherhood.” The assistant will play a key role in designing and working on a new exciting project in the field between design, medicine and function. Some tasks include patternamking and sewing, library and archival research, organizational support for workshops and program events, among others. Qualifications – Education, Experience, and Skills The ideal candidate needs to be a Fashion Design Student and have good sewing and patternmaking skills: needs to be comfortable to sew on an industrial machine and be able to comfortably adjust and draft patterns and drape on a form. Needs to be committed to reliably meet at once a week for check ins, and to discuss ongoing research. Should have a general interest in craft, and themes at the intersection of art, design and motherhood. Strong organizational and time‑management skills to support research and project development. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite. Experience in designing, drafting, and evaluating surveys to support qualitative and quantitative research. Ability to conduct in-depth research, including gathering and curating relevant visuals, texts, and archival materials around a defined topic. WORK MODE: Hybrid/Remote - Employees hired for this position primarily work remotely with the occasional on-campus presence required with advanced notice. Employees in this role will also be expected to use their best judgment to be on campus when necessary in order to best fulfill the responsibilities of their job descriptions. Hourly Rate: $31.37/hour This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between SENS-UAW, Local 7902 and the University. 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