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Jiabao Zhu

Jiabao Zhu

Ann Arbor, MI, US

 
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About 

Elsewhere:

Employment 

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US, Research Assistant

Studio Reassembled suggests a pilot studio on Taubman College's third floor, rethinking traditional student setups. Moving away from one-to-one desk arrangements, it provides shared amenities and resources aligned with modern teaching methods. This promotes teamwork and enhances learning conditions, especially important post-pandemic. The design prepares students for professional environments, preparing them to handle similar challenges.
As a research assistant, I assist the faculty members from schematic design to 3d modeling and renderings to convey the idea through visualization tools. I also work on designing a studio-reassembled website as a visual map to guide students on how to utilize the redesigned space(https://studio-reassembled.com/). Besides, I also help with the fabrication of the space to bring the visual representation to the real space.

Jun 2024 - current
 

DxU Architects, Chicago, IL, US, Design Intern

As an intern, I had a chance to be part of a team that worked on a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a community park. My role involved collaborating on the initial phase of the project, where we strived to create an inviting design concept that adhered to the RFP's requirements. A significant aspect of my contribution was focused on developing the overall plan of the park, with a special emphasis on conceptualizing a veteran memorial section. The goal was to ensure our proposals honored veterans while also offering a peaceful and cohesive space for community members to gather, reflect, and recreate. This experience allowed me to contribute meaningfully to a project that will have a lasting impact and taught me about the value of thoughtful, community-centered design.

Feb 2024 - Mar 2024
 

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US, Research Assistant

My primary role involved supporting Stratton Coffman, a faculty member of the Taubman College at the University of Michigan, for his fellowship exhibition "Erotica Generica", which won the Architecture League Prize 2024. This project manifested as an architectural installation, merging the concept of an appliance petting zoo with a relaxed workspace lounge. It emphasized an environment where architecture was celebrated rather than subdued or suppressed. My main duties encompassed assistance in both design and fabrication.

Sep 2023 - Dec 2023
 

University of Michigan Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences, Ann Arbor, MI, US, 3D Consultant

This project aims to incorporate VR technologies into the Engineering 100 class curriculum. My responsibility involves creating 3D models and textures for nuclear reactors and building a 3D virtual model of the reactor campus. This includes the development of the landscape, surroundings, and community in the Unreal Engine for both fusion and fission reactors. This setting accurately mirrors the physical environment of a real reactor campus. And the Olko project by Gensler is one of my references for the reactor campus.

Jun 2023 - Nov 2023
 

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US, Research Assitant

My main responsibility was to assist Taubman College faculty members,
Leah Wulfman, with their fellowship exhibition “Free Dirt”, which won the Architecture League Prize 2024. The project was a combination of real and virtual interactive interfaces, and my main responsibility was to develop 3D models for Unity and the fabrication of the physical interactive installation.

Sep 2022 - Mar 2023
 

Education 

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US, MArch, Master of Architecture

Aug 2021 - May 2024
 

Awards 

Alpha Rho Chi Medal of Taubman College 2024, Award

Judged by the faculty of each school, the medal honors the graduating student who has shown an ability for leadership, performed willing service for his or her school or department, and gives promise of real professional merit through their attitude and personality.

2024
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills