Graphic Design
Percent
From 25% to 50%Application Deadline
Type
Research AssistantshipPosition Start Date
Description, Responsibilities, and Qualifications
This Graphic Design position supports the Data Storytelling Toolkit for Libraries (DSTL) project at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign iSchool. DSTL is a research and toolkit development initiative focused on building tools and pathways that support library professionals in creating and using data storytelling resources.
Applicants should familiarize themselves with the DSTL project, including the awarded grant and the PI’s public-facing work as a speaker and consultant (see “talks”), prior to applying.
Position Overview
The Graphic Design RA will support visual design and marketing for the DSTL project, helping develop cohesive visual elements across both web pathways and related resources.
Responsibilities
- Design website icons, including development of color schemes and consistent formatting across pathways
- Develop website elements that support overall visual design
- Contribute to marketing materials for a library-facing product
- Develop adaptable resource templates (e.g., case templates, PDF layouts, PowerPoint templates)
- Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Demonstrated experience in graphic or visual design
- Strong attention to visual consistency and formatting
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience designing for web environments
- Experience developing adaptable document or presentation templates (PDF/PPT)
*Dependent on sustained federal funding
Compensation
Position structure:
Hourly work will begin Summer 2026 (~10 hours/week). If performance is strong, duties may expand to a 35-50% Research Assistant position (20 hours/week, dependent on sustained federal funding) beginning Fall 2026, with possible extension through Spring 2027.
Application Procedure
Please send:
- a passionate and well-evidenced expression of interest (cover letter)
- resume/CV
- email of one professional reference
to Dr. Kate McDowell (kmcdowel@illinois.edu) by March 27 to be considered.
Please use the subject line “DSTL Graphic Design RA Application.”
Strong applications will reference at least one specific aspect of the DSTL project, grant description, or the PI’s public talks/consulting work in the cover letter.
In your cover letter, please also briefly describe one example of data visualization or information design that you think communicates data effectively and why.
Applicants are encouraged to include a link to a portfolio of relevant design work.
Applicants who demonstrate specific professional interest in humanizing data storytelling will be preferred.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and a brief Zoom interview may be required. Online and on-campus students are eligible to apply as long as they reside in the United States.