Shape the Future of Architecture Through Research

SAOTA and ARRCC are seeking a highly curious, technically minded and design-sensitive Senior Architectural Researcher to join our Resource Centre team.

This role is ideal for an architect or architectural professional who is passionate about materials, systems, technology, innovation, and design research. You will play a pivotal role in supporting our project teams by investigating cutting-edge architectural solutions, emerging technologies, global precedents, regional design considerations, and material innovations from around the world.

As a trusted research partner to our architects and designers, you will help uncover solutions to complex project challenges while contributing to the ongoing development of SAOTA and ARRCC's world-class architectural library and resource centre.

What You'll Do

Architectural & Technical Research

• Research the latest architectural materials, technologies, products, and systems in response to project requirements and design team enquiries.
• Develop innovative and globally informed solutions to architectural challenges.
• Assess and communicate the technical characteristics, limitations, and opportunities of products and systems.
• Provide informed guidance and recommendations to project teams.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment where multiple research requests and deadlines may run concurrently.

Topic-Based Research

• Conduct focused research on architectural topics and trends.
• Synthesize complex information into clear, actionable insights for project teams.

Project-Specific Research

• Undertake detailed research aligned to project briefs and design requirements.
• Investigate project-specific topics including:
  • Materials and product solutions
  • Regional and cultural context
  • Vernacular architecture
  • Design guidelines and regulations
  • International precedents and case studies
  • Architectural systems and technologies

AI-Enhanced Research

• Leverage approved AI tools including Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude and future platforms to enhance research efficiency and output.
• Critically evaluate, verify, and cross-check AI-generated information for accuracy and relevance before distribution.
• Continuously explore emerging AI technologies and how they can strengthen architectural research practices.

Architectural Trends & Knowledge Sharing

• Stay informed on global architectural trends, publications, innovations, and industry developments.
• Proactively share relevant insights, new technologies, material innovations, and system solutions with architectural teams.
• Act as a knowledge hub for design and technical innovation within the practice.

Resource Centre & Library Development

• Curate architectural samples, products, materials, and technical information for inclusion in the SAOTA-ARRCC library.
• Contribute to the ongoing refinement and development of both the physical and digital Resource Centre.
• Demonstrate strong aesthetic judgment when evaluating materials, products, and systems for inclusion.
• Maintain an in-depth understanding of products and systems housed within the library.

Supplier & Industry Engagement

• Help establish and maintain a network of SAOTA-approved manufacturers, suppliers, and specialists in strategic regions around the world.
• Evaluate products and systems based on quality, suitability, technical performance, and alignment with the SAOTA-ARRCC design aesthetic.
• Engage with specialists, manufacturers, and suppliers to gather relevant information and technical expertise.
• Represent the Resource Centre and SAOTA-ARRCC professionally in all external interactions.

Design Guidance & Support

• Apply strong architectural and aesthetic judgment when recommending materials, systems, and product solutions.
• Support project teams through research-driven design considerations and recommendations.

Essential Requirements

• Architectural qualification.
• Minimum 3 years' relevant experience advantageous.
• Technical knowledge of architectural materials and specification processes.
• Strong understanding of architectural elements, construction systems, technologies, and their applications.
• Ability to accurately interpret briefs, instructions, and research requests.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work within established systems and document templates.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with fluent English proficiency.
• Ability to work effectively both remotely and from the Resource Centre.
• Reliable uncapped internet connection with a minimum speed of 20Mbps upload/download.

Advantageous Experience

• Experience using AI tools for architectural research and information synthesis.
• Previous experience working with architectural libraries, resource centres, or knowledge management systems.
• Previous experience working within SAOTA.

Behavioural Criteria

• Passionate About Design & Materials
• Research-Driven & Resourceful
• Technically Curious
• Innovative & Future-Focused
• Professional & Collaborative
• Accountable & Self-Motivated
• Discreet & Trustworthy

Why Join SAOTA & ARRCC?

This is a unique opportunity to sit at the intersection of architecture, research, technology, innovation, and design excellence. Your work will directly influence projects across the globe, helping shape some of the world's most prestigious residential, hospitality, and mixed-use developments.

If you're passionate about architectural discovery, global design trends, new technologies, and helping world-class designers create extraordinary spaces, we'd love to hear from you.