IFSA Sessional Instructor: Microbiology, Fall 2026 (London)

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.

Semester dates: 2 September 2026 – 17 December 2026. 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.

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