Life Science Laboratory Coordinator

The School of Science at Buena Vista University seeks a Laboratory Coordinator for introductory laboratory course sections. The primary responsibilities will be biology courses with additional chemistry or physics laboratories. This position will be the instructor of record for the laboratory sections. The Coordinator will work in close collaboration with the faculty to ensure the alignment of the laboratory section to the courses, appropriate pedagogy for instruction, and proper functioning of the laboratory spaces. The Coordinator will work with guidance from the faculty but must be able to exercise significant autonomy for the laboratory classroom. The position will also include student employee supervision, finally, based on qualifications, there is an opportunity to teach an independent science course in the General Education Program at BVU.

Essential Duties

• Teach two to three sections of biology laboratory and two to three sections of physics laboratory per semester.
• Laboratory preparation duties: prepares, sets up, and breaks down materials/kits for exercises and experiments
• Attention to laboratory safety is paramount.
• Maintain the physics stockrooms in good working order
• Keeping inventory and ordering supplies for the stockrooms as needed
• Stay current in understanding the use of course technology and small equipment/instrumentation
• Consult with faculty members in biology and physics on equipment usage and potential repair or replacement
• Use and maintain accurate knowledge, understanding, and records of personal safety requirements and expectations of the BVU and regulatory bodies, such as OSHA
• Wear proper attire and PPE when working in the restricted/required areas
• Maintain a safe, clean work environment

Secondary Duties

• In consultation with faculty, institute development of new laboratory exercises and courses as appropriate.
• Ability to teach a general education course based on their expertise
• Must be a team player and have excellent verbal and written skills
• Knowledge of multiple pedagogies (traditional, flipped, POGIL, among others) is a plus

Education Required:

Master’s degree in Biology with additional content knowledge in Chemistry and Physics or equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in a laboratory setting
• Working knowledge of and ability to use such tools as Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), learning management software, and internet search tools.
• Looking for excellent communication skills; ability to efficiently interpret information, communicate new ideas, information, and needs through appropriate communication methods and behaviors with faculty, staff, and students, while appreciating the unique contributions of diverse individuals.
• Must demonstrate careful attention to detail and accuracy, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle multiple tasks quickly and effectively, proactively establish priorities, meet deadlines, and solve problems independently.
• Demonstrated ability to work with undergraduates with patience and flexibility

This position is not eligible for an employer-sponsored visa and all applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

To apply, please submit a letter of application, graduate school transcripts (photocopies acceptable but official copies required for appointment), and current vita with the names of 3 references (including title, address, e-mail address, and telephone number). Teaching evaluation summaries and teaching philosophy statements are helpful inclusions. Review of applications will begin immediately, with priority given to applications received before May 21, 2024, and will continue until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is August 2024.

A background check will be conducted on the final candidate. Buena Vista University is an EOE/ADA/Smoke-Free Employer, and especially welcomes applications from individuals who will contribute to any aspect of the university’s diversity.

Buena Vista University is located on the shores of beautiful Storm Lake, a 3,200-acre natural lake located in Northwest Iowa. Since 1891, we have prepared students for lifelong success and blended liberal arts with real-world applications. BVU expands access to a quality education by empowering the people who propel Iowa forward in order to power rural vitality and personal prosperity. We foster an environment based on success both for our students and our employees, and we strive to build and support a diverse community. BVU firmly stands behind our motto, Education for Service, and was recently awarded the 2020 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification.

In Storm Lake you will find impressive amenities perfect for families, students, young professionals, and retirees alike. Residents and visitors enjoy an energetic downtown that is home to a variety of locally-owned retail stores that complement several national chains. There is an array of shopping, dining, and professional services, as well as a vibrant arts and multicultural environment. We are a diverse community in both population and opportunity. Most important, Storm Lake residents enjoy a relatively low cost of living and a high quality of life. Learn more at BVU.edu/StormLake.