His research examines visual communication in the function of place identity, with a particular interest in visible language unique to transcultural environments. Amir is dedicated to projects that have a social or cultural dimension. He has practiced design in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East, working with cultural institutions, community and arts publications, and small businesses. Prior to joining UIC in 2014, he taught design at the American University of Sharjah, in the UAE, where he examined branding campaigns for Dubai’s architectural developments.