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Dr. Nneka Ibekwe-Okafor and her lab are seeking a programmer to develop and program virtual reality content to assess racial empathy in the early stages of child development.
The virtual worlds are programmed using C# (i.e., Unity). Having a background in Unity is required. Ideal candidates have successfully completed an algorithms course and have previous experience with data visualization or analysis, including coursework in computer graphics. Students with/pursuing computer science degrees are highly encouraged to apply.
The role is for approximately 5-10 hours of work per week.
In this role, candidates must be able to develop a virtual environment by exercising sound reasoning based on the outlines and scripts that will be provided to help develop the environment. Whenever possible, the candidate will be encouraged to provide feedback and creative solutions to create an optimal environment for children under the age of 7 to engage with the content. The ideal candidate is open to utilizing feedback constructively, and is committed to creating a virtual environment that is visually stimulating and engaging.
When applying, please include a resume/CV that lists relevant coursework as well as programming languages you are comfortable using (please rate your level of comfort as “novice | “proficient” | or “advanced”). Please also indicate if you have experience creating digital art (e.g., game development, 2D digital art, 3D digital art). Game development experience is preferred.
If you have an online portfolio, please include a link to your page.
We are also requesting a cover letter to accompany your application. In the cover letter please answer the following questions:
- Why are you interested in this position?
- Why are you interested in virtual reality development?
- List any experience you may have with virtual reality development.
- Discuss your objected-oriented programming experience.
- Describe a CS or programming project you are most proud of and the challenges you experienced during the project and transferrable skills or experience.
- If you have previous experience with Unity, please elaborate in your letter.
- We would like the virtual environment to be completed by the end of fall semester, with the goal of hiring this position for ongoing monitoring in the spring semester (5 hours or less per week). Please confirm in the letter that you have the time commitment and expertise to be able to complete the project within the desired timeframe.
Additionally, when submitting your application, please include a picture or pdf of your unofficial transcript.
Location: This role can be supported remotely, or if there is a preference to work on-campus, students are able to utilize the lab on the fourth floor of Gordon-White Building (African and African Diaspora Studies Department).
Career Competencies Gained:
• Communicate in a clear and organized manner so that others can effectively understand
• Make decisions and solve problems using sound, inclusive reasoning and judgment
• Act equitably with integrity and accountability to self, others, and the organization
• Manipulate information, construct ideas, and use technology to achieve strategic goals
