The 4D Research Lab , part of the Amsterdam Institute for Humanities Research, is looking for a Junior Research 3D Modeller and Developer.

The 4D Research Lab is a place where scientists, 3D modelers and IC specialists come together and collaborate on inventive solutions for important (contemporary) research questions in the humanities. It is located at the interface between fundamental research, applied science and science communication and valorisation. The 4D Research Lab's field of work extends over, but is not limited to, the entire humanities with a focus on historical architecture, archaeology, heritage and landscape, and is by definition interdisciplinary. It has the expertise for collecting 3D data using various scanning techniques, whether or not in combination with drones, 3D modelling and the production of 3D output: from 'immersive' 3D visualizations, navigable online simulations and interactive annotated 3D models to X Reality apps. The 4D research Lab also offers a facility for presenting research results in publications, both in print and online and at exhibitions, permanent exhibitions of heritage institutions and others in several broader public-oriented presentations. There are partnerships with other faculties of the UvA, other universities and (heritage) institutes at home and abroad, and social partners such as the Municipality of Amsterdam and Monuments and Archaeology. The 4D Research Lab forms part of the newly installed Humanities Labs of the Faculty of Humanities.

What are you going to do

As junior research 3D modeller and developer you will assist in larger projects of the 4D Research Lab, and be responsible for the full execution of smaller projects. Typical projects include 3D digitisation of cultural heritage or archaeological objects and architecture, virtual 3D reconstruction, presenting and visualising 3D data on the web using and modifying existing 3D libraries and platforms, and the development of VR or AR for research and education. You will be responsible for the historical, archaeological and archival research in the case of historical reconstruction, and in all cases write detailed reports on the procedures of 3D modelling and app creation. Some of these are published on our own platform, the 4DRL Report Series. Since of the interdisciplinary nature of many of the 4D Research Lab's projects, you will work in an exciting and dynamical environment and collaborate with researchers and practitioners with many different backgrounds in arts and humanities.

Your tasks and responsibilities:

• take an active role in projects and assignments of the 4D Research Lab;
• do historical, archaeological, art-historical and archival research for historical 3D reconstructions;
• execute the main modelling in a project, or oversee student-assistants in the modelling procedures;
• participating in meetings of the 4D Research Lab;
• keep project journals and write project reports;
• presenting intermediate research results at workshops and conferences and contribute technical content for scientific co-authored articles;
• collaborate in workshops; teaching researchers and students to use 3D modelling in their research;
• help to think about improving methodologies and use of new technologies;
• write manuals, develop tutorials or create videos about the use of 3D technologies;

The candidate we are looking for has basic knowledge of 3D visualisation technology, 3D data and 3D research methodologies as applied in the digital humanities, digital archaeology, digital art-history or related fields. In addition, the candidate should show a great capability to adapt to the variable demands of different projects and disciplines, and a willingness to learn new software and methodologies. They should be able critically reflect on work procedures and resulting data, and make suggestions for improvement to any part of the process. Moreover, they have an open attitude towards sharing data, project results and workflows. Next to the technical capabilities, the candidate is expected to have excellent research and writing skills.

Your experience and profile:

• an MA, RMA or MSc in Digital Archaeology or Heritage Studies or in another discipline in the humanities or social sciences with a relevant specialisation. The degree must have been obtained by the time the position starts;
• thorough IT and 3D skills demonstrated by a track record end-products and projects;
• advanced experience in 3D modelling, such as Blender, and photogrammetry software;
• preferably have experience with other kinds of 3D data acquisition methods such as lidar and structured light scanning.
• able to work with a range of data types and familiarity with graphics programs and GIS;
• a strong cooperative attitude and willingness to engage in collaborative research projects;
• a curiosity for and willingness to learn new techniques and methods;
• good writing and research skills;
• proven skills in project data organisation and reporting;
• excellent command of English and a basic understanding of written and spoken Dutch.

Knowledge of digital cultures, heritage studies and historical material culture are considered an advantage.

The 3D Technician will be appointed as support staff at the Institute of Humanities Research (AIHR) of the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Amsterdam. The employment contract (for a fixed period because only temporary funding is available for the work/project) will be for one year. Contingent on a positive performance evaluation the contract will be extended with 1 year. The employment contract is for 19 hours a week. Preferred starting date is 01 November 2022.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and relevant experience, ranges between €2,960 to €4,760. This sum does not include the 8% holiday allowance and the 8,3% year-end allowance. A favourable tax agreement, the '30% ruling', may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

What else do we offer

• excellent possibilities for further professional and technical development and education;
• an enthusiastic, inspiring and professional, technical and academic team;
• the opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers at research institutes that - partly as a result of their interdisciplinary approach - are world renowned.

Faculty of Humanities

The University of Amsterdam is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 30,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.

To work at the University of Amsterdam is to work in a discerning, independent, creative, innovative and international climate characterized by an open atmosphere and a genuine engagement with the city of Amsterdam and society.

The Faculty of Humanities provides education and conducts research with a strong international profile in a large number of disciplines in de field of language and culture. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the faculty maintains close ties with many cultural institutes in the capital city. Research and teaching staff focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and are active in several teaching programmes.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.