Labs + Student Employment
Working at the Innovation Center
It’s not just about theories and lectures; it’s about getting your hands dirty and making real-world impact. Whether you’re researching, strategizing, coding, or designing, you’ll have the chance to work on industry projects alongside the corporation. Here, you’ll gain practical skills, build connections, and pave the way for your future careers. Join us and be part of a community that’s all about turning ideas into action.
How We Work
At the Innovation Center we operate as a multidisciplinary organization, integrating principles of human-centered design into aspects of our work. Our collaboration with corporate partners means that we tackle real-world projects that have a direct impact on industries and communities. Project teams are carefully curated, comprising UIC Innovation Center staff, UIC faculty, and students spanning from undergraduates to doctoral candidates. This diverse mix of expertise ensures that each project benefits from a wide range of perspectives and skill sets. Together, we approach challenges with creativity, empathy, and a commitment to finding innovation solutions that address the needs of users and stakeholders.
What Our Projects Look Like
Our projects are diverse, and each client, industry, and problem statement presents its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. Therefore, we approach each project with a fresh perspective, customizing our approach to best meet the needs of our clients. Projects run all year, but they vary in start, end, and duration depending on the specific requirements of the task at hand.
Your Role
As a student researcher you are responsible for using your discipline expertise to contribute to project needs. Work involves conducting user research, analyzing data, participating in ideation sessions, developing prototypes, and testing concepts with users. Student researchers contribute to presentations and deliverables such as insights, design recommendations, and early-stage solutions.
Learn more about our process
FAQ About Working at the Innovation Center
Frequently asked questions about working at the Innovation Center can be found below.
Do I have to be from a design discipline or background?
No. We believe that there is a benefit to diversity in perspectives, so we welcome all disciplines and education levels to apply to the Innovation Center. In the past, we’ve had students in MIS, marketing, anthropology, history, engineering, computer science, public policy, and many more.
Is this a paid position? How much?
Yes. This is a paid position as a student researcher. Hourly rates are dependent upon university class standing, i.e., graduate students are paid the graduate hourly rate.
What is the time commitment?
During the school year, the time commitment is typically between 10-20 hours per week. During the summer, hours may increase up to 35, depending upon project needs.
How do I apply to the Innovation Center?
Our job postings are available on Handshake. There is limited space in the labs, and it is highly competitive, so check back frequently for open lab positions.