Adjunct Instructor – Aquatic Ecology (Lecture and Laboratory)

St. John's University; Hempfield Township (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 12,000 - 15,000; Part time

Job summary

St. John’s University is seeking an enthusiastic Adjunct Instructor to teach Aquatic Ecology to undergraduate students in the Biological Sciences and Environmental Sciences programs.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong background in aquatic ecology and a commitment to teaching excellence. Responsibilities include lecturing and laboratory sessions, delivering engaging instruction on water quality, ecosystem dynamics, and aquatic organisms, and maintaining an inclusive learning

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Ecology, Environmental Science, Aquatic Ecology, or a closely related field.
• Experience teaching undergraduate courses preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Teach two 1.5-hour lectures and one 4-hour laboratory weekly.
• Deliver instruction on aquatic ecosystem dynamics, water quality, and the ecology and behavior of aquatic organisms.
• Maintain a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment.
• Assess student performance and submit grades in accordance with university policies.
• Update course materials as appropriate while building upon existing syllabi, lectures, laboratory exercises, and field activities.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master's or PhD in Ecology

Job description

St. John’s, established in 1870, has two New York City campuses; international locations in Rome, Italy; Limerick, Ireland; and Paris, France; and study abroad locations around the world. The Princeton Review and other top rankings consistently recognize the University’s outstanding academics, diverse student body, dynamic internship, and volunteer opportunities, focus on student life, and diverse study abroad offerings. St. John’s University offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in its six colleges and schools, with a growing number of programs offered online. The University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and 12 other major academic and professional associations.

A dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion is at the heart of our mission. As a Catholic and Vincentian university, St. John’s is committed to institutionalizing practices of inclusive excellence to ensure that we welcome and celebrate the intrinsic worth of all members of our community. We will become an even stronger university as we enhance equity at every level of our institution. Our graduates will excel in the competencies and values needed for leadership and service in a rapidly evolving world.

Job Summary

Hiring Rate

$12,621.00

Division/Department Information

This course serves undergraduate students in both the Biological Sciences (Department of Biological Sciences) and Environmental Sciences programs. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment where students, faculty, and staff from all backgrounds can thrive. Our programs promote equitable access to educational and research opportunities, incorporate diverse perspectives into the curriculum, and cultivate a sense of belonging across the scientific community. Through these efforts, we prepare future scientists to address complex biological and environmental challenges in an increasingly diverse world.

Job Responsibilities

We seek an enthusiastic Adjunct Instructor to teach Aquatic Ecology, including both lecture and laboratory components. The successful candidate will have a strong background in aquatic ecology and a demonstrated commitment to excellence in undergraduate teaching.

Responsibilities Include

• Teaching two 1.5-hour lectures and one 4-hour laboratory session each week.
• Delivering instructions on aquatic ecosystem dynamics, water quality assessment, and the ecology and behavior of aquatic organisms.
• Maintaining a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment.
• Assessing student performance and submitting grades in accordance with university policies.
• Updating course materials as appropriate while building upon existing syllabi, lectures, laboratory exercises, and field activities provided by the department.

Competencies, Education, Experience

Qualifications

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Ecology, Environmental Science, Aquatic Ecology, or a closely related field.

Previous Undergraduate Teaching Experience Is Preferred

Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Supplemental Information

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a curriculum vitae (or résumé) and the names and contact information of three professional references by September 15, 2026. Questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Laura Schramm, Director of Environmental Sciences, at [e-mail]. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

• Important Note- St. John’s is NOT an E-Verify Employer

St. John’s offers a competitive compensation program which is commensurate with your qualifications, experience, and contingent upon the departmental budget. St. John’s University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

We also offer an extremely comprehensive benefits program to meet the diverse needs of our workforce. Along with exceptional benefits such as medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability insurance, tuition remission, generous 403(b) employer contribution, employee assistance program, and liberal paid time off policies, faculty and staff can also enjoy St. John’s performing arts, libraries, bookstores, dining facilities, campus recreation and sporting events

Any offer of employment is subject to receipt by St. John’s University of satisfactory references, verification of employment and education.

St. John’s University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.