ResearchLIFE Magazine

Roles: art direction, photoshoot direction, graphic design, client meetings, press check 

ResearchLIFE is a professional research magazine published twice a year by the Office of the Vice-President (Research and International) at the University of Manitoba. Launched in 2009, ResearchLIFE was created to highlight the research activities of artists, engineers, scholars, scientists and students at the University. 

The magazine redesign was intended to give the magazine a modern, cohesive design to reflect the sophistication and diversity of its readers, which includes academic researchers, students and other professionals in a broad range of disciplines. A standardized font and colour palette was developed in keeping with the overall U of M brand. The feature articles are designed to stand out through the use of original photography, custom title typography and compelling illustrations in a creative and conceptual manner to reflect each story. 

To improve clarity and visual appeal, a flexible grid structure was developed to showcase the depth of content from small articles to feature stories, and provide visual consistency throughout the magazine. The covers were redesigned with large full-bleed, research-oriented imagery to make an impact and resonate with its audiences. The result is a clean, creative and contemporary tone with ample white space. ResearchLIFE has realized its goal of publishing a well-regarded scientific magazine, which has in turn increased respect and credibility for the U of M research community.