Graduate Research Fellow (A. Crawford)

Supervisor Name:

Assia Crawford

Email address:

acrawford1@tulane.edu

Position Title:

Graduate Research Fellow

Course Title:

N/A

Number of Positions Available:

1

Application Deadline:

Aug 17, 2026

Position Description:

This project investigates how mycelium-based bio-textiles and composites can be cultivated, shaped, and structurally integrated into architectural-scale installations through the use of digital fabrication technologies. At its core, the research asks: how can biologically grown materials be systematically developed and engineered to function as viable, sustainable alternatives within design and architectural systems? Addressing this question requires the integration of biological growth processes with computational design and fabrication workflows, positioning the project at the intersection of material science, environmental design, and emerging biofabrication practices.

Through sustained laboratory work, the research assistant will acquire hands-on experience in biological cultivation techniques, including sterile procedures, substrate preparation, and environmental calibration for controlled mycelial growth. These experiences will introduce the student to experimental rigor and reproducibility, fostering an understanding of how biological systems can be manipulated and optimized for material production.

Expected Duties:

This candidate must be available for an actual 12-hour period each week during regular working hours in installments of either two 6-hour sessions or three 4-hour sessions. This opportunity is not suitable for individuals who may be overburdened with other TA or part-time job commitments or committee work.

The work requires intense focus; precision; the ability to troubleshoot, pivot, think critically and independently, assess, and monitor in a conscientious way. As the work entails research, it is not sufficient to complete the task at hand; the candidate would have to think about the bigger goals and intentions behind the work and adjust accordingly. The ability to maintain a clean environment is required for successful operation in the lab. Training will be offered in person.

The work will take place in a web lab in Stern Hall and occasionally in the wood shop, mill house, ceramics lab, or robotics lab in the Small Center. The work is going to be hands-on and in person.

Duties include:

• maintaining the lab
• Running experiments
• Casting with living organisms
• Growing mycelium textiles and biocomposites
• Accessing relevant literature and helping structure experiments
• Occasional fabrication using traditional and digital making skills.

Preference will be given to candidates with an interest in pursuing research in academia or commercially.

Proposed Schedule:

actual 12-hour period each week during regular working hours in installments of either two 6-hour sessions or three 4-hour sessions

Position location:

In-person/On-campus (Uptown)

Student Preferences:

Either Undergraduate or Graduate Student

Application Materials:

Resume

Work Sample/Portfolio

Class Schedule

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