We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to explore and redefine next-generation systems and interfaces for design and manufacturing. While AI has revolutionized many design sectors, its advances in design for manufacturing remain limited. A central challenge for design tools in manufacturing is the need to simultaneously nurture the creative ability to conceive novel designs and the analytical prowess to critically evaluate and optimize functionality and production. We aim to answer: how can we create a design interface that leverages AI for creativity while optimizing for efficiency and manufacturability?
We are looking for an interdisciplinary researcher with a strong technical background to rethink geometric abstractions for design and fabrication, as well as expertise in HCI/Accessibility to understand and evaluate usability and accessibility. The ideal candidate will have experience working with 3D geometry and be capable of building end-to-end systems that integrate formal reasoning and optimization with data-driven design exploration powered by advances in generative AI. Additionally, they should be skilled in developing interfaces that provide users with intuitive and accessible control and evaluation capabilities, and be proficient in conducting accessibility audits and user evaluation studies and analysis.
This position will be co-advised by Professors Jen Mankoff and Adriana Schulz, offering opportunities to collaborate with UW's DUB and graphics groups, UW CREATE, and the Brown Visual Computing Lab (BVC). Our labs are equipped with extensive resources, including a wide range of fabrication equipment such as high-end 3D printers and a whole garment knitting machine. The position is funded by an NSF award focused on developing design interfaces for accessible product design and customization, and a substantial amount of the postdoc's time will be dedicated to advancing the goals of this award.
Interested candidates should email their CV, including a list of publications, a cover letter, and references. A research statement is optional. Please send your application materials to both jmankoff@cs.washington.edu and adriana@cs.washington.edu, and include [FabPostdoc] in the email subject line.
We look forward to hearing from you!