IFSA Instructor: Great Poisonings of the World (London Sp'27)

IFSA Sessional Instructor: Great Poisonings of the World, Spring 2027

• Location: London
• Pay: Competitive
• Hours: Part time
• Contract Type: Fixed Term/Contract

The Institute for Study Abroad is seeking an instructor to teach a course entitled ‘Great Poisonings of the World’ for the IFSA Biosciences Career Accelerator (BCA) programme over the upcoming Spring 2027 semester.

The BCA program aims to provide biology, neuroscience, and public health students (majors and minors) with an opportunity to continue progress toward their degree and gain valuable international and practical experience. It also aims to provide these students with structured exposure to the broader biosciences industry while allowing them to develop a deeper understanding of their professional strengths and areas for growth.

Within the BCA, this course explores the effect of intentional and accidental man-made and natural poisonings on humans and the environment, and their impact on public policy. Through historical and contemporary case studies, students will analyze the scientific, social, and regulatory consequences of environmental contamination and debate their influence on society.

Along with teaching the class, the instructor will also be responsible for assessment and marking as well as the design of at least two co-curricular activities such as guest speakers, site visits or other appropriate events designed to expose students to new perspectives and help them integrate, apply, and synthesise key learning. The syllabus for the course has been approved by our School of Record, however minor modifications can be made in agreement with the Academic Director.

This is a great opportunity for faculty, postdocs, and PhD students. The successful candidate will have a minimum of a master’s degree in a related subject and be at least two years into a PhD. The successful candidate will have experience of teaching and assessment in a UK and/or US higher education setting. Prior experience of working with study abroad students is a plus.

IFSA is committed to the professional development of its faculty, and opportunities for professional development will be made available to the successful candidate.

Semester dates: 13 January 2027 – 5 May 2027

While contracts will initially be offered for the Spring term only, we fully intend for the course to run in both Fall and Spring semesters. Contract renewal will be subject to student demand and instructor performance.

Teaching hours: 3 hours teaching per week over 16 weeks for a total of 45 contact hours (A one-week Easter break and observance of the Early May Bank Holiday are factored in). The course will be delivered across two sessions: Tuesday and Thursday 13.30 - 15.00 (the timetable has some flexibility, but candidates should ideally be available at these times). Our instructors also provide one office hour per week where they are available to meet students.

Candidates will need to have the right to work as self-employed in the UK, as this post is not eligible for visa sponsorship or PAYE.

Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their CV and cover letter as soon as possible. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis.

For any questions or further information please contact Dr Kate Gafner, Academic Director.

Essential Criteria

• At least 2 years of work towards a PhD in a relevant subject area
• Experience of teaching at university level

• Understanding of teaching principles in a diverse classroom environment
• Commitment to and experience of fostering active learning
• Familiarity with using Virtual Learning Environments
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Desirable Criteria

• Recognised teaching qualification, e.g. Fellowship of Advance HE or similar
• Experience delivering teaching to US study abroad students
• Familiarity with US assessment and degree program structures