Katja Thieme

Katja Thieme is a Professor at the University of British Columbia’s School of Journalism, Writing, and Media. Her research focuses on intersections of gender studies, trans identities in technology, Indigenous education, and writing pedagogy. She critically examines how facial recognition algorithms perpetuate binary gender assumptions, advocates for integrating Indigenous perspectives into first-year writing courses, and explores ethical challenges in academic freedom and speech policies.

Her work bridges rhetorical theory with contemporary issues, such as the socio-technical impacts of AI and the role of metalanguage in teaching. Recent publications emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration to address gaps in representing non-binary identities in computer vision research and fostering inclusive academic practices. Her pedagogical innovations include 'spacious grammar' approaches that empower student agency while addressing colonial histories in academic English.

Thieme’s contributions span academic ethics, methodological critiques of Indigeneity in research, and historical analyses of Canadian suffrage movements. She actively engages with public debates on university autonomy, balancing free speech with ethical responsibilities, particularly regarding transgender inclusion.