Adjunct Instructor, Environmental Science

Drake University; United States; On-site; USD 3,000 - 5,000; Part time

Job summary

Drake University’s Environmental Science and Sustainability Department seeks a qualified educator to teach one undergraduate Environmental Justice course for Spring 2027. The class meets Wednesdays from 4:00 to 6:50 pm and will involve lectures, discussions, and assessments.

The candidate should hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field and demonstrate knowledge of environmental justice policy and advocacy, with GIS experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in environmental studies, sociology, public policy, urban planning or related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the history, policy, and advocacy of environmental justice.
• Preferred: knowledge of environmental justice analysis using GIS or other tools.

Responsibilities

• Teach one undergraduate Environmental Justice course for Spring 2027 (Wednesdays 4:00–6:50 pm).
• Develop and deliver lectures, assignments and assessments for the course.
• Engage students in discussions, field experiences, and related projects.

Skills

Teaching experience

Environmental justice knowledge

Public speaking

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Master's degree in environmental studies or related field

Tools

GIS

Job description

Department Summary:

The Environmental Science and Sustainability Department at Drake University is an interdisciplinary program with a diverse, integrated education, and extensive field experience designed to support students in today's complex world. Our goal is to immerse students in a multifaceted experience where they will learn about science, policy, economics, ecology, and conservation in the classroom and in the field, but where you can also get to know the professors, engage in research for publications in scientific journals, study in the rainforest, burn prairies to control invasive species, and yes, change the world.

Job Summary:

Drake University's Department of Environmental Science and Sustainability is looking for a qualified person to teach one undergraduate course in Environmental Justice. The course will be offered in the Spring 2027 academic term, beginning on January 25, 2027. The class is scheduled for Wednesdays 4:00 - 6:50 pm.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's degree in environmental studies, sociology, public policy, urban planning or a related field (or equivalent professional experience in environmental justice work).
• Demonstrated Knowledge of the history, policy, and advocacy of environmental justice.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of environmental justice analysis, using GIS or other tools to investigate the intersections among environmental degradation, toxicity, and health.

All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.

About Drake:

Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees. All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.

STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY

At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. Drake University is proud to support an equal opportunity, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. Learn more about why Drake is an exceptional place to work: An Exceptional Working Environment | Drake University

Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (ph: 515.271.3133; email: [e-mail]) and let us know how we can assist you. At Drake University, we highly value a diverse, inclusive workforce. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We stand firmly against discrimination including on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.

More than 900 faculty and staff members have chosen Drake as the place to further their careers. The University values our faculty and staff and strives to create an exceptional working environment. Inspire lifelong learning through tuition benefits for employees and their eligible dependents/partner to pursue degrees at Drake Encourage work/life balance through competitive personal time, vacation and holiday schedule, including an extended Winter Break Practice shared governance and strategic planning through various representative bodies, including Faculty Senate and All Staff Council Support research through internal and external grants as well as through collaborative student engagement All In This Together - Drake Bulldogs find a home where they can pursue their passions and ideas while having an impact on the future of our University. One of Drake’s top strategic priorities is to maintain and build our inclusive community. Drake University moves past mere tolerance of diversity and creates a culture of inclusion that sees diversity of identities, backgrounds, and ideas as fundamental to our excellence and success as an institution. A welcoming and diverse campus is critical to delivering on our mission of providing an exceptional learning environment.

Some key inclusion and diversity initiatives and activities on campus include: Drake's Campus Climate Assessment, which gauged the experiences and attitudes of current faculty, staff, and students, showcases a racially Faculty and Staff Affinity Groups Free or reduced tickets to fine arts and select athletics events make it easy to proudly support our students and colleagues. A variety of workshops, webinars, lectures and events aimed at encouraging civil debate and bringing the world to campus to support our commitment to lifelong learning. Check out our campus tour video highlighting Drake University.

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