Valuing the Social in Computing (VSC) investigates how race, gender, and social values shape cultures across computer science and engineering. We compare computing subfields that struggle to attract and retain women and nonbinary people with those that do not, exploring how “technical” work is often privileged over “social” dimensions and how that affects inclusion, belonging, and innovation. The VSC Lab also investigates systemic violations of consent in the creation and consumption of computing tools (e.g. phones and chatbots) and platforms (including those serving media and finance). It uses ethnography and a vast archive of tech journalists’ articles to examine gender violence in high tech and the Silicon Valley investor class and their effects on society.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct and assist with qualitative and ethnographic research, including interviews, observations, and fieldnotes;
- Coding and analyzing qualitative data;
- Contribute to literature reviews, annotated bibliographies, and theoretical summaries;
- Draft, edit, and proofread academic manuscripts, conference abstracts, and reports;
- Help manage project logistics, meeting coordination, and shared documentation;
- Support undergraduate research assistants through mentorship or task guidance;
- Uphold ethical standards for data management and participant confidentiality.
Required Qualifications
- Enrollment in a Master’s or PhD program in STS, sociology, anthropology, education, women, gender and sexuality studies, information/data science, or a related discipline
- Strong writing and communication skills, and interest in collaborative interdisciplinary research
- Demonstrated interest in examining how social, ethical, and cultural contexts shape science, engineering, and technology
- Ability to organize, manage, and complete tasks reliably and independently
Location: Charlottesville, VA
Start Date: January 5, 2026
Compensation: $26.00-29.50, depending on experience
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience conducting interviews, coding, or qualitative analysis (coursework or projects)
- Familiarity with qualitative coding software or willingness to learn
- Interest in publishing or presenting research
- Experience coordinating team-based projects or mentoring students
What You’ll Gain
- Hands-on qualitative research experience
- Authorship and presentation opportunities
- Exposure to grant writing and interdisciplinary collaboration
- Mentorship from faculty and peers in engineering, anthropology, and STS
Time Commitment
Approximately 10-20 hours per week during the academic year; summer hours possible. Appointment renewable based on performance and funding.
Application Instructions
Review of applications begins Dec 15, 2025 and continues until the position is filled.
- Cover letter (1-2 pages) describing your background, research interests, and fit with the project
- Curriculum Vitae
- Writing sample (e.g., paper, thesis chapter, or project report)
- Contact information for 2-3 references
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.