Four research assistants in the Visual Imaginaries of Gender project

We are seeking: four student research assistants with a background in art, design or related fields to participate in a three-month research project on gender representation in text-to-image generative AI systems.

Project Background

Generative AI models increasingly shape contemporary visual culture by producing images in response to text prompts. These systems do not simply generate neutral representations; they also reflect, reproduce, and sometimes challenge cultural assumptions about identity, gender, and social roles. This project investigates how gender is imagined and visualized by text-to-image AI models through artistic experimentation.

The project combines artistic practice and research. Student assistants will engage directly with generative AI tools. Artistic production is understood not only as an outcome, but also as a method for critically investigating these technologies.

Role and Responsibilities

Over a three-month period, student assistants will develop an individual artistic exploration of gender representation in generative AI systems. Student assistants will have considerable creative freedom in defining their artistic approach, themes, prompts, and modes of experimentation.

Within this framework, student assistants will:

  • Develop an artistic project that critically engages with questions of gender representation;
  • Document their creative and research process throughout the project;
  • Participate in periodic group discussions and research meetings;
  • Contribute to the collective reflection on the project’s findings.

The art projects produced by the four student assistants will be presented in a collective exhibition on the theme of “Visual Imaginaries of Gender in Generative AI.” In addition, the students’ documented experiences and reflections will contribute to an academic publication that adopts an auto-ethnographic perspective on artistic engagement with generative AI systems.

Practical Information

  • Duration: 3 months (October to December 2026)
  • Appointment: 0.2 FTE (approximately 8 hours per week)
  • Number of positions: 4
  • Compensation: approximately €600 per month (approximately €1,800 over the full project period)

We particularly encourage applications from students interested in the intersection of art, technology, critical inquiry, and questions of gender and representation.

How to Apply

To apply, please send a motivation letter and your art portfolio to Piera Riccio: p.riccio@uva.nl. Deadline: 25 September 2026.
Please note that you have to be enrolled as a student to be eligible for this position.