[Hiring] Adjunct Faculty @University of Maryland Global Campus

Role Description

This position is specifically to teach remotely, for stateside applicants. Local applicants only; UMGC does not sponsor logistical support for this role.

Introduction to Bioinformatics (BIOT 630): An introduction to bioinformatics. Emphasis is on the interpretation of data. Topics include:

• New, sophisticated DNA, RNA, and protein sequence analyses
• Pattern recognition and DNA computing
• Traditional mathematical modeling (using Bayesian probability and basic algorithms)
• Machine learning and neural networks
• Markov models and dynamic programming
• Analysis of tridimensional structures
• Phylogenic relationships
• Genomic and proteomic data

At UMGC, we don’t just teach; we empower. Founded in 1947, UMGC is an open-access, minority-serving institution serving over 90,000 nontraditional learners worldwide, including a proud, large military-affiliated population. Our students are mature, highly dedicated, and balancing careers, families, and service. As an Adjunct Faculty member, you are the essential partner helping them bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world career success.

Why Teach with UMGC?

• Focus on Students, Not Course Design: All courses follow a standardized, pre-designed, unified course model. Standardized rubrics, OER materials, library resources, and digital textbooks are fully provided at no cost to you.
• True Asynchronous Flexibility: Teach with flexibility, on your own schedule. As long as you meet weekly grading, responsiveness, and engagement milestones, your daily hours are entirely up to you.
• Ongoing Growth: We invest in you. All newly hired faculty receive comprehensive online orientation, alongside ongoing, cost-free professional development opportunities.

The Rhythm of Your Week (Key Responsibilities): Adjunct faculty bring our pre-built curriculum to life through real-world expertise and active mentorship.

• Classroom Engagement & Presence:
  • Be Visible: Maintain an active classroom presence at least 5 days per week, introducing yourself with a welcome announcement and driving discussions.
  • Bridge Theory & Practice: Enrich the pre-built curriculum with your own professional expertise and real-world examples.
  • Build Belonging: Foster an inclusive, culturally responsive environment where adult learners feel supported and motivated.
• Responsiveness & Feedback:
  • Stay consistently engaged with learners throughout the course by responding to inquiries, returning feedback, and posting final grades within the expected timeframe.
• Proactive Support & Collaboration:
  • Monitor Progress: Use available data tools to track student engagement and conduct proactive outreach to at-risk students.
  • Team Up: Partner with success coaches, academic staff, and portfolio directors to refer struggling students to UMGC support resources.
  • Stay Connected: Participate in UMGC's vibrant faculty community, including the Program Hub and ongoing training.

Course Structure & Time Commitment:

• Format: 100% Online & Asynchronous
• Term Length: 8-week sessions (3-credit courses)
• Class Size: Typically, 25–35 students (smaller sections for select courses)
• Time Commitment: The adjunct faculty role requires a substantial commitment throughout the term focusing not only on academic success but also the social, personal, and professional growth of students.

Qualifications

• Terminal degree in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or related field from an accredited institution of higher learning.
• Professional experience in Biotechnology or a related field.
• Applicants must have and be able to maintain their own legal status in the country in which they apply to teach.
• Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English sufficient to effectively teach course content, communicate with students, and evaluate academic work in English.
• A deeply student-centered approach rooted in empathy, flexibility, professional integrity, and cultural responsiveness.

Requirements

• Experience teaching adult learners in an online, asynchronous environment.
• Prior postsecondary teaching experience.
• Active engagement in your discipline's professional community.

Benefits

• Health Coverage: Access to health care, medical with vision, dental, and prescription plans for both individuals and families, effective from the 1st of the month following your hire date. NOTE: Adjuncts are not eligible for the State of Maryland subsidized rates. Adjuncts would be responsible for the total cost if enrolled.
• Insurance Options: Term Life Insurance and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance.
• Supplemental Retirement Plans: Include 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and various Roth options. The university does not provide matching funds.