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Graduate Teaching Assistant Jobs in Murray, KY (NOW HIRING)

Graduate Teaching Assistant information

See Murray, KY salary details

$7

$13

$21

How much do graduate teaching assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate teaching assistant in Murray, KY is $13.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.48 and $15.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate teaching assistant?

Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) are graduate students who support faculty members in teaching undergraduate or graduate courses. Their responsibilities can include leading discussion sections, grading assignments and exams, holding office hours, and sometimes lecturing or helping develop course materials. GTAs gain valuable teaching experience while pursuing their own advanced degrees, and their work helps support the instructional mission of universities. The specific duties and expectations for GTAs vary by institution and academic department.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate teaching assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, you typically need a strong grasp of the subject matter, enrollment in a relevant graduate program, and effective organizational skills. Familiarity with learning management systems (such as Blackboard or Canvas), grading software, and classroom technology is often expected. Excellent communication, time management, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure you can support faculty, facilitate student learning, and maintain efficient, productive classroom environments.

What are some common challenges faced by graduate teaching assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as grading, leading discussion sections, and assisting with course preparation, while also managing their own coursework and research. Balancing these tasks can be challenging, especially during peak periods like exams. Effective time management, clear communication with supervising faculty, and seeking support from fellow GTAs or campus resources can help manage these demands. Additionally, understanding expectations early and staying organized are key strategies for success in this role.

What is the difference between Graduate Teaching Assistant vs Teaching Fellow?

AspectGraduate Teaching AssistantTeaching Fellow
Required CredentialsEnrolled graduate student, often pursuing a master's or PhDTypically a graduate student or recent graduate with relevant academic background
Work EnvironmentAssisting professors in undergraduate classes, grading, tutoringLeading or co-teaching courses, delivering lectures, developing curriculum
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, academic institutionsUniversities, colleges, academic institutions

While both roles involve supporting higher education, Graduate Teaching Assistants primarily assist with grading and student support, whereas Teaching Fellows often take on more teaching responsibilities, including leading classes. Both positions are common in academic settings and require graduate-level credentials.

Is being a graduate teaching assistant worth it?

A graduate teaching assistant (GTA) role provides valuable teaching experience, often includes tuition waivers or stipends, and can enhance academic and professional skills. However, it typically involves a demanding schedule with limited pay, so its worth depends on individual career goals and financial needs.

What job categories do people searching Graduate Teaching Assistant jobs in Murray, KY look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Teaching Assistant jobs in Murray, KY are:

What cities near Murray, KY are hiring for Graduate Teaching Assistant jobs?

Cities near Murray, KY with the most Graduate Teaching Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Teaching Assistant job openings in Murray, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,450 per year, or $13.7 per hour.

Assistant Professor, Physiology

Murray State University

Murray, KY • On-site

$53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Murray State University rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

595th of 623 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Details
Position Information
Posting Number
20270014FAC
Job Title
Assistant Professor, Physiology
Number of Vacancies
1
About Murray State
Murray State blends educational opportunities found at research institutions with collaborative interactions among students, faculty and staff found at smaller universities. Students receive personalized attention from supportive faculty and staff as the University offers a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Murray State University places our highest priority on student learning and excellent teaching, blending the range of educational opportunities often experienced at research institutions with the nurturing student-teacher interactions usually found at smaller universities.
Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.
About Murray State Benefits
Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.
Equal Opportunity Employment
Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
Type of Employment
Regular Full-Time
If Part Time, Enter Hours Per Week
Work Location
Murray, KY
Employment Term
Academic Year
Position Type
Faculty (Tenure-Track)
Department
Biological Sciences
Anticipated Start Date
August 2027
Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities
The primary teaching responsibilities will be upper level Animal Physiology, which is taken by Pre-Medical, Pre-Dental, and Pre-Optometry majors who are close to applying for professional school. The candidate will also teach Human Physiology, as well as some introductory biology courses. There will be opportunities to teach other upper level courses and graduate level courses in the successful applicant's area of expertise. The research area within physiology is open, but preference will be given to candidates with expertise in animal physiology at the cellular or systems level. The successful candidate will conduct research and publish their work, pursue external funding, mentor undergraduate and graduate student research, and advise students pursuing professional degrees in health-related fields.
Minimum Education Requirements
Ph.D. in Biology, Physiology, or closely related discipline with postdoctoral research experience.
Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements
Applicants must have postdoctoral research experience. Teaching experience at the postdoctoral level is ideal, but experience as a graduate teaching assistant is acceptable. Candidates must be able to teach courses related to Biological Sciences. Candidates must demonstrate strong research potential as evidenced by publications, grants, or other scholarly activities.
Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications
Candidates whose research area is cellular or systems physiology are preferred.
Physical Demands
Work Hours
Annual Salary
$53,143 (Additional pay dependent upon qualifications)
Pay Plan
Faculty II
Posting Details
Posting Date
08/04/2026
Closing Date
10/02/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Along with the application, the following items must be included:
  • Letter of application
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Statement of research interests
  • Teaching statement that describes the candidate's teaching background and interests

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