What are the responsibilities and job description for the 2026 Summer Scholar (Research Track) position at Hanbury Evans Wright Vlattas DBA Hanbury?
Driven by global thinking and local impact, Hanbury is an architecture firm that designs environments for people. With practical optimism, we push the boundaries of what’s possible while staying rooted in what’s indispensable. We design experiences that naturally draw people in – ones that are curated, aspirational, and a refreshing departure from the ordinary. Through acting with empathy, planning adaptably, and designing holistically, we deliver ideas with stretch. Learn more about Hanbury here.
About the Program
Since 2003, Hanbury has offered the Nicholas E. Vlattas Summer Scholars Program. This highly competitive experience brings students from various schools together for an immersive design environment. The program blends research-informed design exploration with hands-on professional practice, providing practical training aligned with the Architectural Experience Program (AXP), which includes design and construction documents, construction administration, and project management.
Summer Scholars work alongside project teams and participate in enrichment workshops such as 3D software, hand rendering, marketing, the business of architecture, firm forums, design travel, and site tours of projects under construction to gain hands on experience. Summer Scholars have the unique opportunity to shape their understanding while working for an architecture firm that is grounded in meaningful connections to place and community.
Job Responsibilities
Research Design Exploration
- Conduct design research including precedent studies, case study analysis, site research, and data collection
- Explore social, environmental, and cultural factors that inform design decisions
- Develop research questions and frameworks that guide design investigation
- Translate research findings into clear visual, written, and conceptual outputs
- Support the integration of research insights into design and project work
Design Studio Support
- Collaborate with project teams on design and research initiatives
- Assist with site analysis, concept development, and visual storytelling
- Contribute to drawings, diagrams, models, and digital content under team guidance
- Participate in design critiques, reviews, and pin-ups
Professional Engagement
- Collaborate with architects, designers, and planners to understand how research informs professional practice
- Participate in firm-wide learning sessions, lectures, and discussions
- Participate in mentorship opportunities focused on design thinking, research methods, and career development
- Collaborate with fellow Summer Scholars across offices and disciplines
- Develop a research-informed final project or presentation
- Present findings and design work to peers and firm leadership