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Teaching Assistant Biochemistry Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Teaching Assistant Biochemistry information

What is a teaching assistant biochemistry?

Teaching Assistant Biochemistry positions are roles typically held by graduate or advanced undergraduate students who support instructors in teaching biochemistry courses. Their responsibilities often include leading discussion sections, assisting with laboratory sessions, grading assignments and exams, and helping students understand complex biochemical concepts. Teaching assistants play a crucial role in bridging the gap between students and professors, providing personalized support and facilitating a better learning environment. They may also assist in developing educational materials and organizing course logistics.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a teaching assistant biochemistry?

To thrive as a Teaching Assistant in Biochemistry, you need a solid background in biochemistry or a related life science, often with progress toward or completion of an undergraduate or graduate degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and course management systems like Canvas or Blackboard is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and organizational skills help you effectively support students and faculty. These skills are crucial for fostering an engaging learning environment, ensuring lab safety, and facilitating student understanding.

What are common challenges faced by a teaching assistant biochemistry and how can they be managed?

Teaching Assistants in Biochemistry often encounter challenges such as explaining complex concepts to students with varying levels of background knowledge and managing large groups in laboratory settings. To address these, it’s important to use clear, relatable examples and foster an open environment where students feel comfortable asking questions. Staying organized, preparing thoroughly for lab sessions, and maintaining good communication with both the lead instructor and students can help manage these challenges effectively. Collaboration with faculty and other TAs is also key to ensuring consistency in teaching and assessments.

What is the difference between Teaching Assistant Biochemistry vs Laboratory Technician Biochemistry?

AspectTeaching Assistant BiochemistryLaboratory Technician Biochemistry
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in biochemistry or related field; some roles may prefer teaching experienceAssociate's or bachelor's degree in biochemistry or related science; technical certifications may be advantageous
Work EnvironmentEducational settings such as universities or colleges, assisting in labs and classroomsResearch labs, biotech companies, or healthcare facilities conducting experiments and sample analysis
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, primarily in education and student support rolesResearch institutions, biotech firms, and healthcare labs focused on scientific testing and analysis

In summary, Teaching Assistant Biochemistry primarily supports educational activities within academic settings, focusing on assisting students and instructors. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians Biochemistry work in research or clinical labs, performing technical experiments and sample analysis. Both roles require a strong background in biochemistry but differ significantly in work environment and primary responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Teaching Assistant Biochemistry jobs in Iowa?

For Teaching Assistant Biochemistry jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Assistant Professor, Chemistry

Science Faculty Jobs

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Description
The Chemistry Department at Drake is certified by the American Chemical Society (ACS). Certification of our program reflects that we provide a modern, rigorous, and comprehensive learning experiences that prepare students for their professional careers. Faculty members, along with laboratory instructors, contribute to the education of our undergraduates during and outside of class hours. We have a wide range of modern instrumentation, including NMR (500 MHz), GC-MS, LC-DAD, UV-vis, and fluorescence capabilities. Drake offers BS and BA degrees in chemistry as well as in biochemistry, and a concentration in biophysics.
The introductory classes are divided into several sections that enable faculty to interact closely with students. Small, upper-division courses allow for are one-on-one interactions with students and flexible approaches to teaching and learning. We also value faculty-student collaborations through research projects and independent studies on topics of interest.
Our mission is to inspire students to experience the joy of discovery in the sciences, to investigate the atomic world and its effects on our everyday lives, and to succeed in their chosen career paths.
Learn more at https://www.drake.edu/chemistry.
Job Summary:
The Department of Chemistry at Drake University is seeking applicants for a tenure-track assistant professor position in Chemistry beginning August, 2024. A Ph.D. or ABD in Chemical Education is required with preference given to candidates with additional experience in Biochemistry, Polymer Science, Physical Chemistry, or related field.
The successful candidate will be able to teach courses in general chemistry as well as introductory and advanced courses in biochemistry or physical chemistry. They will also be able to develop a research program that includes undergraduates and contribute to the design, implementation, and assessment of a summer bridge program for STEM students. A typical teaching load is three courses a semester, with class sizes ranging from 10 to 50 students (upper vs. lower division, respectively). Five specified office hours each week are required. Advising and service, both starting no earlier than the second year of appointment, are also expected in progress toward tenure.
The search committee is particularly interested in candidates who, through their research, teaching, and/or service, will contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.
This appointment starts in August 2024.
Minimum Qualifications:
Ph.D. or ABD in Chemical Education with planned completion by May 2024.
Preferred Qualifications:
Significant background in and ability to teach either Biochemistry, Polymer Science, or Physical Chemistry.
Salary & Benefits:
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts. If you are exploring a job with Drake University, we invite you to spend a little time with our digital benefits guide: Drake Benefits Guide (Plan Year 2023).
One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children. You can learn about both the tuition waiver policy and tuition exchange programs here: Tuition Benefits.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Please complete the online application and attach: (1) a cover letter, (2) CV/Resume, (3) a statement of teaching philosophy, (4) a two-page summary of research plans, (5) a 1-2 page diversity statement, and (6) the names of at least three references.
Please do not attach additional documents at this time. Supplemental documents may be requested or required of finalists.
All job offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check, satisfactory reference checks, and proof of work authorization.
Have Questions?
Questions about the position may be directed by email to Professor Mark Vitha, the search chair, at mark.vitha@drake.edu.
Questions about the application process, working at Drake, spouse/partner support, reasonable accommodations, benefits, or additional information about Drake or Des Moines, Iowa may be directed to Drake Human Resources at jobs@drake.edu.
Review of Applications Begins:
Review of candidates will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. For full consideration, apply by October 15. The position will remain posted until filled.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant's references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
Apply online at: https://sciencefacultyjobs.com/job/drake-university-des-moines-ia-13-assistant-professor-chemistry/
Skills Required
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More Details
Employment Type: Full Time Location: Des Moines , IA , United States Experience Required: Mid-Senior Level Date Published: 08 Sep 2023