Open to opportunities

S Whiteley

@swhiteley

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Writer, researcher, and educator passionate about responsible AI development.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek a role that values creativity and critical engagement, focusing on responsible AI development.

I am a dedicated writer, researcher, and educator with over a decade of experience in content creation, editing, and pedagogy. My academic journey culminated in a PhD in Composition from UC San Diego, where my focus was on digital cultures and the impacts of technology on society. I have a deep understanding of contemporary media, pop culture, and the ethics surrounding AI systems, which fuels my enthusiasm for contributing to responsible AI development.

Throughout my career, I have developed and taught various courses at the University of California, San Diego, including Electronic Music and Music Technology. My teaching philosophy emphasizes inclusive pedagogies and critical frameworks, ensuring that all students can engage meaningfully with the material. Additionally, my experience as a Podcast Production Manager and Development Assistant has honed my skills in narrative structure, editorial quality, and grant writing, enabling me to effectively communicate complex ideas to diverse audiences.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Associate Instructor

Current

University of California, San Diego

Jan 2025 - Present (6 months)

Developed and taught an undergraduate music course, tracing the history of western music from Ancient Greece to contemporary electronic music. This role involved comprehensive curriculum design and delivery.

Curriculum Development Music History Academic & Research

Teaching Assistant

University of California, San Diego

Jan 2020 - Present (5 years 6 months)

Taught courses including Electronic Music, Popular Music, Folk Traditions, and Music Technology. Mentored students one-on-one and evaluated writing and creative projects for clarity and depth.

Teaching Mentoring Academic Evaluation

Para-Educator

Portland Public Schools

Jan 2019 - Present (6 years 6 months)

Worked one-on-one with neurodivergent students, providing individualized support. Practiced individualized communication strategies, empathy, and deep listening to foster a supportive learning environment.

Individualized Communication Empathy

Podcast Production Manager

Upaya Zen Center & Institute

Jan 2017 - Present (8 years 6 months)

Produced and edited podcast episodes on topics of consciousness, ethics, and tech-society intersections. Handled narrative structure, editorial quality, and public communications for the podcast.

Podcast Production Audio Editing

Development Assistant

New Music USA

Jan 2016 - Present (9 years 6 months)

Wrote and edited grant proposals and reports to secure funding for various projects. Conducted research and prospecting using Salesforce and other platforms to identify potential donors.

Research Prospecting Salesforce

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

UC San Diego

PhD, Composition

Grade: ABD

Pursued a PhD in Composition with an emphasis on digital cultures, the impacts of technology on society, critical theory, and experimental music. This program provided a deep understanding of the intersection of technology and society.

UC San Diego

MA, Composition

Completed a Master of Arts in Composition, focusing on advanced musical theory and practice. This program further developed skills in experimental music and critical analysis.

McGill University

BA/BM, Composition

Earned a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Music in Composition, building foundational knowledge in music theory and practice. Also completed a minor in Religious Studies, emphasizing culture, language, and philosophy.