Undergraduate Research Assistant - LGBTQ+ VR & Learning

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 2,066,000 - 2,480,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking an Undergraduate Research Assistant to support Queer Code Studio in the Department of Learning and Performance Systems, assisting across LGBTQ+ virtual reality, critical AI ethics, and sociocultural learning projects. The role involves curating digital heritage materials and organizing qualitative data.

You will collaborate with Dr. Dylan Paré and graduate researchers to translate historical research into design briefs, storyboards, and interactive mechanisms for

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills.
• Interest in research and the research process (literature review, data collection, data organization, etc.).
• Interest in learning design, in particular interactive, immersive, or game-based learning.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Investigate key LGBTQ+ historical moments to guide narrative scaffolding.
• Translate historical research into creative 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

Strong communication

Research process interest

Learning design interest

Independent & collaborative work

Tools

3D modeling tools

Job description

Penn State University is seeking an Undergraduate Research Assistant to support Queer Code Studio in the Department of Learning and Performance Systems, assisting across LGBTQ+ virtual reality, critical AI ethics, and sociocultural learning projects. The role involves curating digital heritage materials and organizing qualitative data.

You will collaborate with Dr. Dylan Paré and graduate researchers to translate historical research into design briefs, storyboards, and interactive mechanisms for