Visiting Assistant Professor of Teaching

Teachers College, Columbia University•New York, NY

1d•$90,000 - $95,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Biobehavioral Sciences at Teachers College, Columbia University is seeking applications for a full time Visiting Assistant Professor of Teaching for the Program in Neuroscience and Education. This is a one-year (twelve months) appointment with a possibility of renewal at the end of the year. The primary responsibilities associated with the position include teaching five courses during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. Additional responsibilities include graduate student advisement, review of master's theses, and contributions to program administration as needed. Candidates should have an earned doctorate in neurosciences or a closely related area, preferably with expertise in human cognitive neuroscience and solid foundations in neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neuroscience-related research methods. Previous experiences teaching at graduate or undergraduate levels, with evidence of effectiveness, and familiarity with online course delivery systems and course coordination also preferred. While rigorous training in Neuroscience is desired, we are also looking for an individual who has a passion for teaching and interacting with students, and a willingness to engage in program outreach and social media representation. Neuroscience and Education at Teachers College was the first graduate program in the United States, and internationally, to offer multidisciplinary training focused on the intersection of neuroscience and education. The M.S.program is designed for students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who seek advanced training in the science of learning, development, and the brain. The program prepares students for a wide range of professional pathways, including research, education, clinical practice, policy, and related interdisciplinary fields. Through coursework and hands-on research experiences, students develop knowledge and skills spanning cognitive neuroscience, developmental science, language and literacy, learning, education, and applied methods. Graduates pursue careers in research, education, healthcare, technology, and allied professions, while many also continue into doctoral, medical, or other advanced professional training. The program currently enrolls approximately 50–60 graduate students, most of whom complete the degree over two academic years. This position will be paid on the Assistant Professor of Teaching pay scale at a level commensurate with the successful candidate's experiences and background. Applicants must be authorized for employment in the U.S. on a full-time basis.

Requirements

Candidates must hold an earned doctorate in Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Psychology, Education, or a closely related discipline.
Demonstrated expertise in human neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience, developmental neuroscience, neuroscience-related research methods, or related interdisciplinary areas.
Evidence of successful teaching, mentoring, or instructional experience at the undergraduate and/or graduate level.
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary academic community.
Demonstrated commitment to inclusive and culturally responsive teaching and mentorship.
Strong computer and instructional technology skills, including familiarity with online learning platforms and course management systems.
Ability to support graduate students from diverse academic, professional, and cultural backgrounds.
Applicants must be authorized for employment in the U.S. on a full-time basis.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience teaching neuroscience or neuroscience-related courses at the graduate level.
Expertise in one or more areas relevant to the Neuroscience and Education curriculum, including cognitive neuroscience, developmental neuroscience, neuroimaging, language and literacy, learning sciences, neuropsychology, neuroscience methods, or related interdisciplinary fields.
Experience with hybrid, online, or technology-enhanced instruction.
Experience advising graduate students or supervising student research projects.
Interest in interdisciplinary training at the intersection of neuroscience, cognition, learning, development, and education.
Demonstrated interest in student mentorship, academic advising, and student support.
Experience with curriculum development, course coordination, or program administration.
Research experience in neuroscience or a related field preferred.
Interest in public-facing scholarship, outreach, or science communication, including social media engagement.
Some evening and weekend hours may be required to support graduate course scheduling and student availability.

Responsibilities

Teach five graduate courses during the year within the Neuroscience and Education curriculum, including required core courses and electives as assigned based on program needs and candidate expertise.
Courses may include instruction during evening hours (between 5 and 9 PM). In Fall and Spring semesters, courses meet once per week for 100 minutes, for 15 sessions. During Summer A or Summer B, courses meet twice per week for 100 minutes, for 12 sessions.
Develop and coordinate course materials across in-person, hybrid, and online instructional formats.
Provide high-quality instruction and mentorship to graduate students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.
Maintain regular office hours and provide timely feedback on student assignments and academic progress.
Advise master’s students regarding course selection, program progression, capstone/thesis planning, and related academic matters.
Review and evaluate student capstone or thesis work as assigned.
Participate in curriculum coordination and assessment activities within the Program in Neuroscience and Education.
Collaborate with program faculty to support student success, academic continuity, and program development.
Contribute to program administration and student recruitment activities as needed.
Participate in admissions review and related program events.
Assist with communication and outreach efforts, including prospective student engagement and representation of the program through public-facing communications and social media.
Support coordination of program events, workshops, advising sessions, and related activities.
Contribute to maintaining a collegial, inclusive, and collaborative program environment.