IFSA Sessional Instructor: Clinical Trials Diversity and Patient Realities, US vs UK, Spring 2026

IFSA; City Of London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

An international educational organization is seeking a sessional instructor to teach a course on 'Clinical Trials Diversity and Patient Realities' in London for the Spring semester. Candidates should possess a master's degree and be progressing in a PhD program, with teaching experience at university level and skills in a diverse classroom. The role includes teaching, assessment, and designing engaging student activities.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Responsibilities

• Teach 'Clinical Trials Diversity and Patient Realities' course.
• Design co-curricular activities for student engagement.
• Conduct assessment and marking for student evaluations.

Skills

Experience of teaching at university level

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Understanding of teaching principles in a diverse classroom environment

Commitment to and experience of fostering active learning

Familiarity with using Virtual Learning Environments

Education

Master’s degree in a related subject

At least 2 years towards a PhD in a relevant subject area

Job description

IFSA Sessional Instructor: Clinical Trials Diversity and Patient Realities, US vs UK, Spring 2026

Location: London
Pay: Competitive
Hours: Part time
Contract Type: Fixed Term/Contract

The Institute for Study Abroad is seeking an instructor to teach a course entitled ‘Clinical Trials Diversity and Patient Realities, US vs UK’ for the IFSA Study in London program over the upcoming Spring semester.

This class provides an in-depth analysis of clinical trials in the U.S. and UK, focusing on the critical issue of diversity and its impact on patient outcomes. Students will explore how the inclusion (or exclusion) of diverse populations in clinical research affects the efficacy and safety of medical treatments. Through case studies, regulatory frameworks, and ethical considerations, the class examines the challenges and opportunities in designing trials that reflect the realities of diverse patient populations. Comparisons between the U.S. and UK healthcare systems will highlight differences in trial recruitment, regulatory policies, and health equity.

Along with teaching the class, the instructor will also be responsible for assessment and marking as well as the design of at least two co‑curricular activities such as guest speakers, site visits or other appropriate events designed to expose students to new perspectives and help them integrate, apply, and synthesise key learning. The syllabus for the course has been approved by our School of Record, however minor modifications can be made in agreement with the Academic Programs Manager.

This is a great opportunity for faculty, postdocs, and PhD students. The successful candidate will have a minimum of a master’s degree in a related subject and be at least two years into a PhD. The successful candidate will have experience of teaching and assessment in a UK and/or US higher education setting. Prior experience of working with study abroad students is a plus.

IFSA is committed to the professional development of its faculty, and opportunities for professional development will be made available to the successful candidate.

Semester dates: 14th January 2026 – 8th May 2026

While contracts will initially be offered for the Spring term only, we fully intend for the course to run in both Fall and Spring semesters. Contract renewal will be subject to student demand and instructor performance.

Teaching hours: 3 hours teaching per week over 17 weeks (1 reading week and 1 week of holiday closure is provided). Total 45 contact hours. The course will be delivered across two sessions: Tuesday and Thursday 15.30–17.00 (the timetable is set, so candidates should be available at these times). Our instructors also provide one office hour per week where they are available to meet students.

Candidates will need to have the right to work as self‑employed in the UK, as this post is not eligible for visa sponsorship or PAYE.

Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their details as soon as possible. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis.

For any questions or further information please contact Dr Kate Gafner, Academic Programs Manager: [e-mail]

Essential Criteria

• At least 2 years of work towards a PhD in a relevant subject area
• Experience of teaching at university level
• Understanding of teaching principles in a diverse classroom environment
• Commitment to and experience of fostering active learning
• Familiarity with using Virtual Learning Environments
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Desirable Criteria

• Recognised teaching qualification, e.g. Fellowship of Advance HE or similar
• Experience delivering teaching to US study abroad students
• Familiarity with US assessment and degree program structures