Pre-College Instructor, Neuroscience of Psychiatric Disorders (Online), Summer 2026

Columbia University•New York, NY

4d•Remote

About The Position

Columbia University's Pre-College Programs offer high-achieving high school students the opportunity to engage in exploratory coursework at the college level, studying alongside peers from around the world. This highly selective program is open to students entering grades 9 and through the summer following their senior year. Columbia University’s Pre-College Programs for high school students is seeking qualified candidates to develop and teach courses during Summer ’26. Reporting to the Senior Director of Instruction and Curriculum for Pre-College Programs, Pre-College instructors develop and deliver immersive non-credit courses for high-achieving high school students. They guide and supervise students when classes are in session, and write a holistic evaluation of each course participant after classes conclude. Neuroscience is the study of the neural processes and mechanisms underlying human function and behavior. It is an interdisciplinary field that combines the ideas explored in the field of psychology with the science that governs the brain and body. In order to understand the etiology of disorders such as addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia, it is crucial to understand how molecular, cellular, and endocrine changes contribute to disease progression. In this course, students learn about how the laws of neurons and neurotransmitters direct brain processes. Classes include interactive lectures, discussions, and assignments designed to help students understand the neuroscience of addiction, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia. Outside of class, students explore case studies of neuropsychiatric disorders so as to fully understand the extent of debilitation and possibilities for recovery. Prerequisite: One year of high school biology.

Requirements

Graduate degree or equivalent professional or academic background
Expertise in the pertinent subject matter
Aptitude for teaching
U.S. work authorization
Must be in the U.S. while teaching

Nice To Haves

Teaching experience

Responsibilities

Develop course content, syllabus, lesson plans, and assigned work, in accordance with Pre-College templates and regulations
Lead and attend all online class sessions
Establish and maintain a dynamic in-class environment tailored for our high school population
Evaluate student work and write a holistic evaluation of each participant after the course ends
Monitor and address student concerns and inquiries (typical class size is 20-24 students)
Attend and complete all required online trainings