Research Intern (Architecture)

At Standard Volumes, we're building the next generation of systems for modular, prefabricated buildings in the Indian context and beyond. This would blend architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, and we're looking for a Research Intern (Architecture) to work directly with the founders on turning ambitious ideas into practical systems.

This role is ideal for a 4th or 5th year architecture student or a recent graduate who wants deep exposure to modular construction, prefabricated volumetric units, and the realities of turning drawings into factory-built components.

Objectives of this role

• Help shape the overall logic and language of Standard Volumes modular system how units are sized, combined, and deployed across different building types.
• Support the founders in building a coherent design and research framework for volumetric units, covering structure, envelope, services, and finishes at a system level (not just one-off projects).
• Translate global best practices in modular, prefabricated, and MiC/PPVC systems into insights and principles that work for Indian regulations, climate, and construction culture.
• Contribute to a set of clear rules and patterns for stacking, planning, and faades that other architects and engineers can use as a kit of parts for future SV projects.
• Help lay the groundwork for a design toolkit / UI that makes it easier for architects to design with VUCs inside familiar tools (Revit, Rhino, etc.) by codifying constraints, options, and workflows.

Responsibilities

• Research and summarize case studies on modular and prefabricated projects (India and global), including structure, envelope, services, and manufacturing approach
• Compile and compare building systems (walls, floors, faades, etc.) with respect to cost, strength, acoustic/thermal performance, and buildability
• Assist in preparing diagrams, drawings, and simple layouts (by hand or using CAD/BIM tools) to communicate modular grids, volumetric units, and connection details
• Help map relevant building codes, zoning, and standards for mid-rise residential and mixed-use modular projects, and maintain organized notes and matrices
• Support the founders in preparing slide decks, briefs, and technical summaries for partners, advisors, and investors
• Participate in regular check-ins with founders and consultants; occasionally join site or factory visits (where applicable) to connect research with on-the-ground realities.

Required skills and qualifications

• 4th or 5th year architecture student, or recent graduate in architecture / architectural design (or closely related field)
• Strong interest in modular construction, prefabrication, building technology, and/or housing innovation
• Basic working knowledge of architectural drawing and documentation (plans, sections, details)
• Comfortable using at least one CAD/BIM or drafting tool (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Vectorworks, etc.)
• Ability to structure research: compare sources, synthesize information, and present it clearly in tables, summaries, and slides
• Good written communication skills in English and attention to detail in documentation
• Self-driven, curious, and comfortable working in an early-stage startup environment, with direct interaction with the founders

Preferred skills and qualifications

• Previous studio or academic work related to construction technology, modular systems, housing, or industrialized building
• Familiarity with sustainability or green-building concepts (thermal comfort, envelopes, energy efficiency, material choices)
• Experience organizing information in Notion, spreadsheets, or similar tools
• Interest in factory-based construction, product design, or manufacturing processes.

Compensation

• This is a paid internship; compensation will be commensurate with time commitment and experience.

How to apply

To apply, email us at [HIDDEN TEXT] with the subject line:

SV Research Intern [Your Name]

Please include:

• Your CV and portfolio (PDF or link), and
• A short answer (36 lines) to any one of the questions below:

• What's one building or project (anywhere in the world) that you think should have been modular or prefabricated WhyExplain m
• odular construction to a non-architect friend in 56 sentences, without using jargon. Pick one speed, cost, or comfort. In modular housing for India, which one would you prioritize first, and whyTell us a
• bout a studio project or assignment where you went way deeper than required. What did you obsess overYou have
• one week to research wall systems for mid-rise housing in India how would you structure your approachWhat's on
• e misconception people have about prefab or modular that you strongly disagree withIf Standa
• rd Volumes was a studio course, what would you hope to learn by the end of the semester