LGBTQ+ VR & Learning Research Assistant

The Pennsylvania State University; Pennsylvania; Hybrid; USD 19,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a Part-Time Undergraduate Research Assistant to support Queer Code Studio in the Department of Learning and Performance Systems. The role involves curating LGBTQ+ digital heritage materials and assisting with interactive design for immersive learning environments.

You will work with Dr. Dylan Paré and graduate researchers, organizing qualitative data, literature reviews, and project documentation.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Interest in research processes (literature review, data organization).
• Interest in interactive, immersive, or game-based learning.

Responsibilities

• Investigate key LGBTQ+ historical moments to guide narrative scaffolding.
• Translate historical research into design briefs, storyboards, and interactive mechanics for sociocultural learning.
• Source cultural heritage artifacts for immersive learning about LGBTQ+ history.
• Create 3D models for games, if the candidate has these skills, though this is not required.
• Assist with qualitative data organization, file management, and preparation of research materials for analysis.
• Conduct literature searches on LGBTQ+ VR/AI technology and learning, and assist with citation management as needed.
• Participate in research team meetings and contribute to ongoing project documentation.

Skills

Communication

Research interest

Learning design

Independent working

Attention to detail

LGBTQ+ history

3D modeling

Blender

Unity

Tools

Blender

Unity

Job description

Penn State University is seeking a Part-Time Undergraduate Research Assistant to support Queer Code Studio in the Department of Learning and Performance Systems. The role involves curating LGBTQ+ digital heritage materials and assisting with interactive design for immersive learning environments.

You will work with Dr. Dylan Paré and graduate researchers, organizing qualitative data, literature reviews, and project documentation.