Matthew Donnelly

BE(Hons) Mechatronics Student at the University Of Canterbury and Freelance Designer

Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand

About

Current 4th year Mechatronics student and designer at the University of Canterbury. Worked with University of Canterbury, UC Motorsport, Auslander Design, Studio BLANK, and as a contract designer.

Experience

  • Vehicle Dynamics Engineer + Chassis Designer at UCM - University of Canterbury Motorsport
    Feb 2025 - Present · 1 yr 5 mos

    - Designing, building and validating through testing the 4WD traction control and torque vectoring systems on UCM26. - Designing, building and validation of the 2WD traction control system on UCM25. - Designing the chassis for UCM26. - Designing the screen simulator rig for UCM 2016 car to train future drivers. - Designed subsitute 3D printed weight-bearing shocks for car sponsor donation. - Remodelling and testing components of the UCM 2024 car for 3D renders for advertising. - Remodelling and testing components of the UCM 2025 car for 3D renders for advertising.

  • 3D Generalist at Auslander Design
    Nov 2024 - Present · 1 yr 8 mos

    - CAD Modelling and rendering Red Bull's new lineup of 4 snow goggle designs. - CAD Modelling and rendering for Nicolai Bikes.

  • Freelance 3D Artist at Freelance
    Jan 2022 - Present · 4 yrs 6 mos

    - Concept designing for Porsche through SPAT studios. - Advertising work for TRIBE COMBAT sports in Africa.

  • Design Engineering Intern at University of Canterbury
    Nov 2025 - Feb 2026 · 4 mos

    - Re-designing, modifying and building equipment to measure the flight duration of tethered moths in a pressure- and temperature-controlled chamber. - Modifying the current chamber for improved sealing at pressures of 85,000 Pa absolute. - Designing and building a temperature control system to vary the air temperature between 5 and 22 degrees centrigade. - Refining the current Arduino-based data acquisition system.

  • Salesperson at Specialized Bicycle Components
    Nov 2025 - Feb 2026 · 4 mos