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.

This is a paid position.

Note : We will not look at applications submitted on linkedin. Please follow the instructions towards the end of this job post. (Send your CV / portfolio over an email and a response to one of the mentioned questions to yash@standardvolumes.com)

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 façades 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, façades, 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 yash@standardvolumes.com with the subject line :

“SV Research Intern – [Your Name]”

Please include :

Your CV and portfolio (PDF or link), and

A short answer (3–6 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? Why?Explain m

odular construction to a non-architect friend in 5–6 sentences, without using jargon. Pick one speed, cost, or comfort. In modular housing for India, which one would you prioritize first, and why?Tell us a

bout a studio project or assignment where you went way deeper than required. What did you obsess over?You have

one week to research “wall systems for mid-rise housing in India” — how would you structure your approach?What’s on

e misconception people have about “prefab” or “modular” that you strongly disagree with?If Standa

rd Volumes was a studio course, what would you hope to learn by the end of the semester?