Pre-College Instructor, Modern Biology & Its Real World Applications (On-Campus), Summer 2026
Columbia University’s Pre-College Programs for high school students is seeking qualified candidates to develop and teach on-campus courses during Summer ’26.
Reporting to the Senior Director of Instruction and Curriculum for Pre-College Programs, Pre-College instructors develop and deliver immersive non-credit courses for high-achieving high school students. They guide and supervise students when classes are in session, and write a holistic evaluation of each course participant after classes conclude.
For more information on the program–including course sessions and times–please see here.
Course Description
The field of biology has expanded rapidly over the past fifty years. New discoveries are happening almost every day. In this course we explore the basic elements of molecular biology, genetics, and evolution and how these sciences affect modern medicine, agriculture, and ecology.
The course begins with a full description of the structure, function, and synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins. Students then apply this information to a wide range of topics such as modern biological research techniques, data interpretation, genetic engineering, immunology, cancer, and virology. The course also includes mini-units on bioethics and the biology of global warming, and we connect modern biology to fields such as anthropology, history, and economics. A variety of group activities, online labs, and videos supplement the student experience.
Please note, this course does not include a wet lab component.
Approximately a third of the material covered in this course will already be familiar to students who have taken AP Biology.
Course Schedule(s)
Session A: June 29 - July 17 -- 11:10am - 1:00pm & 3:10 - 5:00pm
Session B: July 21 - August 7 -- 9:10 - 11:00am & 1:10 - 3:00pm
Session C: August 3 - August 7 -- 9:10 - 11:00am & 1:10 - 3:00pm
Please note: Course(s) and course availability are subject to change. All times shown are Eastern Time (ET). Dates and class times are tentative and subject to change.
Responsibilities:
Develop course content, syllabus, lesson plans, and assigned work, in accordance with Pre-College templates and regulations
Lead and attend all class sessions, including escorting students to and from campus for field trips
Establish and maintain a dynamic in-class environment tailored for our high school population
Evaluate student work and write a holistic evaluation of each participant after the course ends
Monitor and address student concerns and inquiries (typical class size is 20-24 students)
Attend and complete all required online trainings
Qualifications
- Graduate degree or equivalent professional or academic background
- Expertise in the pertinent subject matter
- Aptitude for teaching
Additional Information
Hiring Salary Ranges:
Session A & B (Campus, 3 Week): $7,000 - $9,000
Session C (Campus, 1 Week): $3,000 - $3,500
Please specify which session(s) you would be interested in teaching in the Message to Hiring Manager field.
Please submit a resume inclusive of teaching experience as well as formal teaching evaluations (if available)
Applicants must have U.S. work authorization and will need to be in the U.S. while teaching
Columbia Affiliates: There may be restrictions when hiring individuals who hold a concurrent appointment at Columbia University during the Summer term. Generally, PhD students and Officers of Research are not eligible. Please check with us during the hiring process regarding your eligibility. Please note, Pre-College courses do not count towards the maximum course loads for adjuncts.
Once hired, applicants are required to submit to a third party background check and complete Protection of Minors training in addition to other training(s) mandated by the University and Pre-College Program
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran