At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach Microbiology to health sciences students and design engaging co-curricular activities.
- Company: Institute for Study Abroad, fostering international education and professional development.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, professional development opportunities, and a supportive teaching environment.
- Other info: Flexible contract with potential for renewal based on demand and performance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' learning while exploring the vibrant city of London.
- Qualifications: Master's degree and at least two years into a PhD, with teaching experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Institute for Study Abroad is seeking an instructor to teach a course entitled ‘Microbiology’ for the IFSA Health Sciences Career Accelerator (HSCA) programme over the upcoming Fall semester. The HSCA programme aims to provide medicine, nursing, public health, and health care administration students 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 health sciences industry while allowing them to develop a deeper understanding of their professional strengths and areas for growth.
Within the HSCA, the Microbiology class seeks to introduce students to the fundamentals of microbiology, including microbial diversity, cellular structure and function, microbial systems, and the impact of microbes. It also incorporates advanced topics that may not have obvious clinical relevance, such as environmental and applied microbiology. The course leverages examples and research from the UK context to encourage students to contextualize their study abroad experience.
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 Programs Manager. Additionally, an optional 1-credit laboratory module is offered alongside this course. Interested candidates can also apply to facilitate these practical sessions for an additional fee.
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. While contracts will initially be offered for the Fall 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 (a fall break is provided). Total 45 contact hours. The course will be delivered across two sessions: Monday and Wednesday 9.00-10.30 (the timetable is set, so candidates should 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 Programs Manager.
- 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
- 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
IFSA Sessional Instructor: Microbiology, Fall 2026 (London) employer: Ifsa Butler
The Institute for Study Abroad (IFSA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London that fosters professional growth and development. As a part-time Sessional Instructor for the Microbiology course, you will engage with motivated students while benefiting from a supportive culture that values innovative teaching methods and diverse perspectives. With opportunities for contract renewal and professional development, IFSA is dedicated to enhancing your academic career in a vibrant international setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IFSA Sessional Instructor: Microbiology, Fall 2026 (London)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in academia or the health sciences field. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the institution and its programmes. Show us that you’re genuinely interested in the role and how you can contribute to the students' learning experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your teaching demo! If you're asked to present a lesson, make it engaging and interactive. We want to see your passion for microbiology and how you can inspire students.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace IFSA Sessional Instructor: Microbiology, Fall 2026 (London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in teaching microbiology and working with diverse student groups. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your strengths!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about teaching microbiology and how you can contribute to our HSCA programme. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through.
Showcase Your Teaching Experience:We’re looking for candidates with solid teaching experience, especially in higher education. Be sure to mention any innovative teaching methods you've used or any co-curricular activities you've organised that could enhance the student experience.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ifsa Butler
✨Know Your Microbiology Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the fundamentals of microbiology, especially topics like microbial diversity and cellular structure. Be ready to discuss how you would teach these concepts and relate them to real-world applications, particularly in a UK context.
✨Show Off Your Teaching Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous teaching roles, especially in higher education. Highlight any experience you have with diverse classrooms or study abroad students, as this will show that you can adapt your teaching style to different learning needs.
✨Engage with Co-Curricular Ideas
Think about potential co-curricular activities you could design for the course. Whether it's guest speakers or site visits, come prepared with a few ideas that could enhance the students' learning experience and demonstrate your creativity.
✨Be Ready for Questions on Assessment
Since you'll be responsible for assessment and marking, be prepared to discuss your approach to evaluating student performance. Share any innovative assessment methods you've used in the past and how they foster active learning.
