Sophomore STEM Instructor, CU Pre-Health Scholars

The Sophomore STEM Instructor serves as a limited part-time instructional faculty member for the CU Pre-Health Scholars (CUPS) program within the Office for Educational Outreach and Pathway Initiatives. This role delivers immersive, interdisciplinary STEM instruction for high school sophomore scholars across summer and academic-year programming. The Instructor facilitates experiential learning in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, coding, and applied STEM concepts through interactive instruction, hands-on activities, and project-based learning. The position supports student skill development, ethical awareness in emerging technologies, and exposure to real-world STEM applications. This appointment includes instructional delivery, curriculum refinement, student mentorship, program assessment, and collaboration with program staff and industry partners to advance pathway development and student success outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

* Deliver immersive, interdisciplinary STEM instruction in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, coding, and applied sciences through interactive lectures, hands-on labs, and project-based learning.

* Develop, implement, and refine curriculum aligned with sophomore-level STEM readiness, integrating theoretical knowledge, applied skill development, and ethical considerations in emerging technologies.

* Provide structured mentorship and individualized academic support to high school scholars, fostering an inclusive, inquiry-driven learning environment that promotes curiosity, collaboration, and confidence.

* Facilitate laboratory-based activities, coding exercises, and capstone-style projects that connect STEM concepts to real-world applications and career pathways.

* Coordinate and engage industry and community partners, including organizing guest speakers, professional panels, and experiential learning opportunities.

* Assess student learning and program impact through pre- and post-assessments, structured feedback mechanisms, and documentation of outcomes to support continuous program improvement.

* Collaborate with CUPS leadership and instructional staff to align programming with pathway development goals, student success metrics, and institutional priorities.

Summer STEM Intensive (Sophomore Cohort)

* Deliver structured, immersive STEM instruction during a multi-day summer intensive program.

* Facilitate daily interactive sessions integrating artificial intelligence, biotechnology, coding fundamentals, and applied STEM problem-solving.

* Lead hands-on lab-based activities and project development exercises.

* Support development of a culminating or capstone-style project connected to real-world STEM challenges.

* Provide mentorship and structured academic guidance during instructional and enrichment activities.

Academic-Year Saturday STEM Academies

* Deliver instructional programming across designated Saturday academy sessions during the fall and spring terms.

* Guide students in advancing STEM projects, coding applications, and applied biotechnology exploration.

* Facilitate experiential learning activities that build upon summer curriculum and deepen conceptual understanding.

* Support preparation for presentation or showcase opportunities aligned with program goals.

Ongoing Curriculum Development & Student Support

* Provide regular curriculum preparation, lesson refinement, and instructional planning aligned with program objectives.

* Monitor student progress and provide structured feedback to support skill development and confidence.

* Maintain documentation of instructional outcomes and student engagement to inform program evaluation and continuous improvement.

* Coordinate with program leadership and staff regarding student needs, instructional adjustments, and pathway alignment.

Expected Programmatic Outcomes

* Students demonstrate foundational understanding of AI, biotechnology, and coding principles.

* Scholars apply STEM concepts to hands-on challenges and project-based learning activities.

* Participants complete applied STEM projects suitable for presentation or demonstration.

* Students report increased confidence, STEM identity development, and awareness of STEM career pathways.

* Program assessment data supports continuous refinement and expansion of pathway programming.

Effort Distribution (0.05 FTE)

This 0.05 FTE appointment supports:

* Summer STEM intensive instruction

* Fall and spring Saturday academy sessions

* Curriculum development and instructional refinement

* Student mentorship, project guidance, and assessment activities

* Coordination with program staff and industry/community partners

Effort is distributed across summer and academic-year programming.

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite for summer intensive and Saturday Academies and is located in Aurora, Colorado and weekly remote meetings.

Why Join Us:

Educational Outreach & Pathway Initiatives offers a mission-driven, collaborative environment focused on expanding early access to health and STEM pathways for K-12 students. Working within this unit means being part of a team that values innovation, mentorship, and community impact, where your instructional work directly contributes to building sustainable pathways into higher education and health professions at Anschutz.

For candidates, this role provides meaningful hands-on teaching experience, opportunities to collaborate with undergraduate mentors and campus partners, and the chance to contribute to a high-visibility K-12 symposium that showcases student learning. It's an ideal opportunity for educators seeking impactful, instructional work within a nationally recognized academic medical campus, while gaining experience in outreach, pathway development, and youth-centered STEM education.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

* Master's degree in Education, STEM Education, Science, Healthcare, Research, or a closely related field.

* Experience working with middle school students in educational, outreach, or informal learning settings.

* Demonstrated experience developing student-centered projects and supporting student presentations at symposiums, showcases, or similar academic events.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Prior teaching or instructional experience in STEM, health science, or research-focused programs.

* Ability to facilitate project-based learning and effectively support small-group instruction.

* Experience supporting K-12 students with project-based learning, inquiry-based instruction, or research design.

* Familiarity with youth science fairs, academic symposiums, or public-facing student showcases.

* Experience collaborating with undergraduate or near-peer mentors in instructional or outreach settings.

* Strong classroom management skills and comfort working in dynamic, hands-on learning environments.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

* Knowledge of project-based and inquiry-based learning approaches for middle school learners.

* Experience working within mentor or near-peer mentor models to support student learning and development.

* Ability to facilitate engaging, age-appropriate instruction in STEM, health science, or research-related topics.

* Skill in supporting students through project development, refinement, and presentation.

* Strong classroom management and small-group facilitation skills.

* Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with students, families, mentors, and program staff.

* Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented, youth-centered educational environment.

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

2. Curriculum vitae / Resume

3. Five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers.

Questions should be directed to: James.speed@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by March 24^th, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary for this position has been established as $3,200 annually at .05 FTE, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Colorado (CU) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@ucdenver.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.