The Architecture of Digital Borders
Nicole Starosielski, Professor
Film Studies
Open. Apprentices needed for the fall semester. Enter your application online beginning August 21st. The deadline to apply is Monday, August 31st, 4pm.
Our research team’s forthcoming (September 2026) pair of online guides/slidedecks traces how digital infrastructures, such as data centers, are intertwined with geopolitics. The two guidebooks map digital infrastructure and discrete technologies at national borders as sites of contested sovereignty. Both of them explore the tension between border securitization and the complex reality of international interdependence.
We are seeking research support for the next phase of this project that focuses on the US-China digital border. Despite pressure for US-China technological decoupling, both nations' digital infrastructures continue to be enmeshed. We are seeking auxiliary support for our upcoming publication that explores data centers owned by Apple in China and TikTok in the US, including qualitative research, policy analysis, and writing support.
In addition, we are in the mid-stages of research on the architecture of data centers in other geographies and their relationship to previous industrial facilities (paper mills). This research will provide students with an opportunity to explore these broader questions within additional cultural contexts. These alternative case studies have a unique focus on architectural questions and will provide an opportunity for visual analysis and exploration of architectural history.
This opportunity will include support in refining visual and written materials for public dissemination on websites and publications. It also might include assistance in developing applications for conference presentations, publications, and related opportunities. This project will support students interested in engaging with professionals in the data center industry and the architecture sector. This project will also support students interested in conducting policy research.
Role: In this position, you can expect to:
1. Gain an in-depth understanding of the global data center industry, relevant policies, and their geopolitical implications.
2. Develop skills in qualitative data collection and analysis (textual, discourse analysis, policy tracing, and visual analysis)
3. Learn how literature reviews are created, synthesize academic and industry research, and gather real-world examples from the digital infrastructure and architecture sector.
4. Further develop skills in writing and visual communication, for both academic and public audiences.
5. Improve collaborative research skills, working within an interdisciplinary team, and hone independent work ethic.
Potential weekly tasks could include:
1. Data Collection and Analysis: Helping team members gather data on our case studies, involving mainly qualitative research, and primary material such as industry reports, policy, and artistic statements.
2. Literature Review: Gathering relevant materials for literature review, summarizing and drawing relationships between academic and industry research.
3. Writing and Visual Dissemination: Providing editorial support for digital materials, articles, or other dissemination materials to share research findings with a wider audience.
Qualifications: We seek a passionate undergraduate student to assist in compiling, analyzing, and reporting research on the intersection of geopolitics, the data center industry, and architecture. Ideal candidates should be highly interested in technology, particularly in infrastructures and their connection to architecture and design, national policy, and the natural environment. Candidates should effectively collaborate with researchers, industry stakeholders, and other associations, and work both independently and diligently. Adaptability, learning from the varied expertise of team members, and contributing unique insights to the project are essential. If you have a passion for technology and social change, curiosity about a global-spanning industry, and a commitment to making internet infrastructures more equal and sustainable, we would love to hear from you. Required Qualifications: - Undergraduates with a background in any social science or humanities discipline, such as media studies and communication, architecture, STS, geography, economics, or sociology, as well as STEM areas such as environmental science and engineering, are welcome to apply. - Preference is given to students who enjoy learning through a mix of qualitative and quantitative research approaches. - Keen interest in researching technology and the natural environment and commitment to driving change toward more sustainable and equitable practices. - Ability to work independently, collaborate with a geographically dispersed team beyond Berkeley, and be proactive in completing project activities. Other Skills: - Practical experience or knowledge in data analysis is desirable, including proficiency in coding, familiarity with R or Python, or any design skills that could assist in the visualization aspects of the project, such as producing maps, flow charts, graphs, etc. Diversity: We strongly encourage undergraduates passionate about the topic, even if they have not yet had any research experience, to apply. We are dedicated to increasing the participation of minority students in the field, so first-generation college students or members of minority groups are particularly welcome. Our team is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of our research and providing mentorship to interested students.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Isadora Bratton-Benfield, Graduate Student
Hours: 6-8 hrs
Off-Campus Research Site: This job can be done remotely, and under flexible hours. Travel to conferences and field sites may also be available.
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