Brandeis University invites applications for Graduate Professional Studies, Online Adjunct Faculty in the Rabb School, Graduate Professional Studies (GPS) to teach RBIF 100: Bioinformatics Scripting and Python Programming during the spring semester of 2025.
This course is a high-content introduction to scripting and programming with applications in bioinformatics. It is appropriate for students with little previous programming experience. The course covers the fundamentals of working with Linux systems, using bioinformatics tools, and manipulating biological data files. The focus will be on scripting with Bash and Python. The course will also touch on topics such as how to interact programmatically with SQL databases and RESTful web services, and how to work with distributed compute systems to perform large calculations.
GPS Faculty instructors are active practitioners in the industries that align with our programs and have the professional expertise to bring to course discussions and threads. Instructors are part time and work fully online, with no requirement to appear on campus. Our faculty have earned at least a master’s degree with many holding terminal academic degrees and industry-specific credentials. Previous experience teaching online is not required; GPS offers a comprehensive training program for qualified applicants.
Essential & Non-Essential Job Functions:
- For new courses requiring development:
- Design a syllabus following program chair guidance and the syllabus template
- Create content that aligns with course outcomes and offers the author’s experiences and perspectives on key points
- For all courses:
- Develop and deliver the course according to our teaching standards, which include actively facilitating online discussions, providing relevant and timely feedback on student work, reporting grades, and discussing student issues with staff
- Create or refine and facilitate the course site in the Moodle learning management system
- Strong interpersonal skills when relating to students
- The ability to communicate effectively in writing, including conveying complex information and promoting in-depth engagement on course topics
- The ability to devote adequate time to courses, including responding to students and providing meaningful feedback in a timely manner
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:
- Current, active employment in the Bioinformatics field, or related industry
- Minimum of 5 years of experience using Linux-based shell scripting (csh, bash), Python programming, and SQL for bioinformatics sequence analysis. Minimum of 1 year of experience with distributed computing systems and cloud computing resources such as AWS and Google Cloud
- Strong demonstrated programming and scripting experience, as demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications and/or Github contributions
- Previous experience teaching a college level course or conducting professional training is preferred but not required
Applicants should include with their application a resume or CV that highlights their subject matter qualifications. We will begin reviewing applications on July 15, 2024 and applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis. This appointment is to a position that is in a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 509.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diversity, equity and inclusion are important values at Brandeis today and always have been for they are rooted in our founding as an institution. These values serve as a reminder for self-reflection, and a continuous call to grow for us as Brandeisans. Founded as a model institution for ethnic and religious pluralism, Brandeis University welcomes students, faculty, and staff of all nationalities, religions, and orientations. Moreover, social justice is central to the mission of Brandeis, which endeavors to foster a just and inclusive campus culture that embraces the evolving diversity of our larger society. Read more online about our Mission and Diversity Statements at Brandeis Mission and Diversity Statements.
If you are interested in a role and have relevant experience but your work history does not align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we nevertheless encourage you to apply.
Closing Statement
Brandeis University is committed to providing its students, faculty and staff with an environment conducive to learning and working and where all people are treated with respect and dignity. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnicity, caste, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, including transgender identity, religion, disability, age, genetics, active military or veteran status and any other characteristics protected under applicable federal or Massachusetts law.
