Join the University of Kansas Department of Chemistry as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant
Are you passionate about chemistry and education? Do you have a strong academic background in chemistry and a desire to share your knowledge with others? The University of Kansas Department of Chemistry is seeking highly motivated and qualified undergraduate students to join our team as Undergraduate Teaching Assistants (UTAs). As a UTA, you will have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members and play a vital role in supporting undergraduate chemistry instruction.
About the University of Kansas and the Department of Chemistry
The University of Kansas is a public research university located in Lawrence, Kansas, with a strong commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and diversity. The Department of Chemistry is a vibrant and dynamic community of scholars dedicated to advancing the field of chemistry and providing high-quality education to our students. Our department offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and we are seeking talented and enthusiastic UTAs to support our teaching efforts.
Key Responsibilities
As an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, you will be responsible for:
- Assisting faculty members with undergraduate chemistry instruction, including teaching general chemistry laboratory, organic chemistry laboratory, or advanced-level laboratory courses
- Enforcing laboratory rules and maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment
- Preparing and presenting brief pre-lab lectures to students
- Writing and administering laboratory quizzes and grading student laboratory assignments
- Attending weekly UTA meetings and performing experiments prior to meeting with students
- Proctoring and grading evening lecture exams
- Holding weekly office/discussion hours to address students' questions about lab work and chemistry lecture problems
- Attending weekly laboratory lectures (optional)
Essential Qualifications
To be considered for this role, you must:
- Have successfully completed CHEM 130/135 and CHEM 330 (or their equivalents, e.g., CHEM 184/188, 170/175, 190/195, 624)
- Be enrolled in no fewer than 6 credit hours during the semester term of the appointment
- For summer periods, meet one of the following criteria:
- Have been enrolled in no less than 6 hours in the past spring semester
- Be pre-enrolled in the upcoming fall semester in no less than 6 hours
- Be enrolled in a summer session
- Be admitted to study in the upcoming fall semester
Preferred Qualifications
We prefer candidates who:
- Have successfully completed previous KU Chemistry courses with a grade of B or better
- Have experience working with students or teaching in a laboratory setting
- Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Skills and Competencies
To succeed in this role, you should possess:
- Strong knowledge of chemistry concepts and laboratory procedures
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively with students, faculty, and staff
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
As an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop your teaching and communication skills
- Gain experience working in a laboratory setting
- Build relationships with faculty members and peers
- Enhance your knowledge of chemistry concepts and laboratory procedures
- Develop your leadership and teamwork skills
Work Environment and Company Culture
The University of Kansas Department of Chemistry is committed to creating a positive and inclusive work environment. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we strive to create a culture that is respectful, supportive, and inclusive of all employees.
As a UTA, you will work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, collaborating with faculty members, students, and staff to support undergraduate chemistry instruction. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment, and you will be part of a vibrant community of scholars dedicated to advancing the field of chemistry.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
We offer a competitive salary of $15.00 per hour, as well as comprehensive benefits, including:
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Diverse and inclusive community
How to Apply
If you are a motivated and qualified undergraduate student with a passion for chemistry and education, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. To apply, please:
- Complete an online application
- Attach your resume, including:
- A list of the chemistry courses you would prefer to teach (CHEM 110, 130, 135, 150, 170, 175, 190, 195, 331, and 336)
- The number of lab sections you would prefer to teach (one or two)
Review of applications will be ongoing, and hires will be made as needed throughout the posting period. We look forward to hearing from talented candidates like you!
Apply Now