Job Description

Undergraduate Research Assistant, College of Art & Science

===============================================================

About the Pornography, Platforms & Play Project

The Pornography, Platforms & Play Project (PPPProject) is an SSHRC Insight Development Grant-funded study of the social, cultural, legal and economic factors that shape the production, distribution, and consumption of pornographic video games. The main objective of the project is to understand the interconnected and multi-directional ways that 1)

platforms'

technological affordances and governance, 2)

developers

' creative and political practices, and 3)

players'

influence and play practices 4)

Sociolegal forces

(e.g., internet regulation and moral panics) shape the (un)availability of pornographic video games.

Overview of the Position

The undergraduate research assistant will work as a member of the PPPProject. In that capacity, they will work collaboratively with others to assist with project management, conduct research, and disseminate findings. The undergraduate research assistant will work under the supervision of Dr. Jean Ketterling, Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Studies - Women's and Gender Studies Program at the University of Saskatchewan.



Some availability to work and travel over the summer is required.

Education

Applicants must be a full-time undergraduate student at the University of Saskatchewan. Students with a demonstrated interest in game and/or sexuality studies preferred.

Key Duties

Participate in research team meetings Manage the project website. Coordinate project recruitment and databases, with assistance from the PI and other members of the research team. Conduct research as part of a collaborative team, including conducting an online survey, platform studies, interviews, and game jams. Validate interview transcriptions. Attend and provide logistical support at game jams. Assist in preparing conference papers and attend the Canadian Game Studies Association conference.

Required Skills

This research project includes analyzing explicit sexual content and conducting research with producers and consumers of pornography. Applicants must be comfortable discussing these topics openly and professionally. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail Excellent time-management skills and ability to meet deadlines The successful candidate will value collaboration, respectful communication, and accountability to team members. Proficiency or willingness to develop proficiency in project management (including using Excel to maintain a database, administrative tasks such as emailing, scheduling interviews, etc.).

How to Apply

Submit 1) A cover letter that details your relevant experience and why you are interested in the position. The cover letter should include the names and contact information of two references, and 2) a CV to the Career Centre USask by September 12th. Questions about this position can also be directed to Dr. Ketterling (jean.ketterling@usask.ca)



We anticipate that the start date for this position will be October 1.

Department:

Political Studies

Status:

Term 12 months with the possibility of extension

Employment Group:

Research Positions - Non-union

Full Time Equivalent (FTE):

0.08

Salary:

The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $15.00 - 21.12 per hour. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Salary Phase/Band:

Salary Band 1

Posted Date:

9/5/2025

Closing Date:

9/18/2025

Number of Openings:

1

Work Location:

On Campus




The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve:

EDI Framework for Action

.

We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the

deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy

and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.

The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact

Human Resources

for assistance.