Science Adjunct Faculty Pool, School of Design

Columbia College Chicago•Chicago, IL

13h

About The Position

Columbia College Chicago hires scholars, creative professionals, and other industry-experienced adjunct faculty to teach science courses on a part-time basis. Positions are not available every semester and depend on student enrollment and funding. The college offers introductory and intermediate courses in biology, chemistry, earth science, physics, and interdisciplinary sciences, including general education science courses. Faculty must generally hold a degree at least one level above the level at which they teach; a terminal degree in the relevant discipline is preferred. In terminal-degree programs, faculty hold the same level of degree. In some cases, demonstrated currency in a specialized discipline and a sustained record of distinguished professional work, creative achievements, or other significant relevant experience may be considered instead of the required degree. The role calls for an ability to engage students, convey scientific concepts accessibly, and support student learning and development, particularly in non-majors science education. Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and three references. Official transcripts or further materials may be requested later. The position is subject to a background screening, is union-represented, and is overtime-ineligible. Entry-level compensation for teaching one 3-credit course as of Fall 2026 is $5,635. Compensation for courses with fewer or more than three credits is prorated. Columbia College Chicago describes its work environment as rewarding and offers competitive benefits, including affordable health, dental, and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefits; life and accidental death and dismemberment coverage; paid and unpaid leave options; work/life benefits; educational assistance programs; and retirement and financial planning benefits. Columbia College Chicago promotes access to a broad array of social and cultural theories, practices, and perspectives as part of its contemporary creative curriculum and educational mission. It seeks individuals able to work with students from diverse social and cultural backgrounds and whose creative, scholarly, or professional work contributes to a rich educational experience. The college is an equal opportunity employer and complies with applicable civil rights laws.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics, an interdisciplinary field, or a related field.
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to engage students and effectively convey concepts and critique student work.
Ability to translate complex scientific concepts into clear, accessible lessons.
Passion for non-majors science education and commitment to student learning and development.
Generally, a degree at least one level above the level at which the faculty member teaches; in terminal-degree programs, faculty members hold the same level of degree. In some cases, relevant professional or creative achievements and experience may be considered as an alternative to the required degree.
Submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and three references.
Ability to work with students from a wide range of social and cultural backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

PhD in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics, an interdisciplinary field, or a related field.
Terminal degree in the relevant discipline.
Demonstrated success teaching, lecturing, or mentoring students in an academic or professional setting, preferably in higher education.
Passion for teaching and commitment to a learning environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and professional growth.
Experience with project-based learning or hands-on teaching methodologies.

Responsibilities

Teach science courses on a part-time basis, as positions are available and contingent on enrollment and funding.
Engage students, communicate and present course material effectively, and critique student work.
Translate complex scientific concepts into clear, accessible lessons.
Support student learning and development, particularly in non-majors science education.
Contribute to an inclusive educational experience for students from a wide range of social and cultural backgrounds.