[Hiring] Pre-College Instructor, The Origin and Evolution of the Universe @Columbia University

Role Description

Columbia University’s Pre-College Programs for high school students is seeking qualified candidates to develop and teach 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.
• Guide and supervise students when classes are in session.
• Write a holistic evaluation of each course participant after classes conclude.

Course Description:

The origin and evolution of the Universe is one of the greatest (and oldest) questions ever asked. This course is an introductory review of the field of cosmology for students with a background in physics and math, but not necessarily astronomy. The course focuses on:

• The field of cosmology and its early history.
• Relationships to observational astronomy and particle physics.
• Observations that led scientists to believe that the Universe is expanding.
• Explanations for the expansion, the origin of the Universe, and the evolution of its constituent materials, including dark matter and dark energy.
• General relativity and its implications for the structure of the Universe and predictions regarding astrophysical phenomena such as black holes.

In-class discussions and activities based on primary source research papers will complement in-class problem solving and supplemental readings.

Course Schedule(s):

• Session A: July 6 - July 17 -- 12:00pm - 3:00pm ET (Classes are taught online)

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 online class sessions.
• 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.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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.

Benefits

• Hiring Salary Ranges: Session A (Online, 2 Weeks): $3,300 - $4,200.