Inst/Ast Professor - Fixed Term

Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player in education is seeking qualified instructors for introductory biology courses. This role involves teaching both lectures and labs, emphasizing evidence-based practices and fostering an inclusive classroom environment. Candidates should hold a Master's degree, with a PhD preferred, and demonstrate a commitment to innovative teaching methods. Join a vibrant academic community that values diverse perspectives and promotes a dynamic learning atmosphere. This position offers flexibility, with opportunities for both part-time and full-time engagement, making it ideal for passionate educators eager to inspire the next generation of scientists.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required for Instructor, Doctorate for Assistant Professor level.
• Experience teaching biology in higher education settings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Teach introductory biology courses, including both lectures and labs.
• Supervise graduate teaching assistants and engage students in scientific discovery.

Skills

Teaching experience

Evidence-based teaching practices

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Education

Master’s degree in relevant field

PhD in relevant field

Tools

Syllabus design

Job description

Working/Functional Title: Inst/Ast Professor - Fixed Term

Position Summary

Michigan State University (MSU) and MSU’s Lyman Briggs College (LBC) actively promote a dynamic research and learning environment in which qualified individuals of differing perspectives and cultural backgrounds pursue academic goals with mutual respect and shared inquiry.

Founded in 1967, Lyman Briggs College is a vibrant residential STEM college at Michigan State University that focuses on the study of science in its social, historical, and humanistic contexts. This pool posting is for qualified candidates to teach as an instructor for our introductory biology courses. Please note that this position could be part-time or full-time and it is possible that no positions are needed in some semesters. The review of applications is ongoing and continuous, as needed.

LBC’s curriculum integrates cutting-edge student-focused science pedagogy with an innovative interdisciplinary curriculum that explores the sciences and the human and social dimensions of the sciences. Our introductory biology courses focus on organismal biology and on cell and molecular biology. We value teaching approaches that include high degrees of empirically-supported best practices, including elements such as interactive engagement and peer-learning. Our introductory courses include both lecture and lab components. Instructors often teach both lectures and labs, and sometimes supervise graduate teaching assistants who teach labs. Labs are investigation-oriented, with students engaging in the process of scientific discovery whenever possible. Since we are seeking candidates for a pool of available instructors for our classes, specific course needs will vary from semester to semester.

Minimum Requirements

Master’s degree in relevant field of study and teaching experience for Instructor level. Doctorate for Assistant Professor level.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience teaching biology in higher education settings.
• PhD in relevant field.

Required Application Materials

• CV including education background / qualifications, a list of publications, teaching and mentoring roles, leadership positions, contributions to the academic community, and efforts in public outreach;
• a statement of teaching philosophy that highlights (1) the applicant’s commitment to evidence-based practices, (2) the candidate’s efforts to address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the classroom, (3) syllabus design, and (4) mentoring students;
• one sample syllabus;
• the names and contact information for 3 professional references.

Special Instructions

Applications will be reviewed as needed.

Website

LBC Website

Department Statement

The LBC curriculum integrates the natural sciences and mathematics with the history, philosophy, sociology, and communication of the sciences. There are approximately 2,000 students in Lyman Briggs, of which 66% are women. Additionally, 32% of LBC students are members of the Honors College. Faculty work closely with students in small classes and with student groups such as the LBC Inclusivity Committee Student Group and Women in Science. LBC is also a leading center for research on teaching and learning and for interdisciplinary scholarship. The college boasts a dynamic community of students, staff and faculty who make LBC an exceptional place to learn and work.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.