Biology Postdoctoral Associate Teaching Scholars

About the Program

The Postdoctoral Associate Teaching Scholars (PATS) Program at Boston University’s Department of Biology is designed for early-career Ph.D. recipients who are preparing for academic careers with a strong teaching component. This program provides postdoctoral scholars with the opportunity to gain substantial teaching experience while also engaging in research or curriculum development.

PATS scholars receive an initial one-year appointment, typically renewable for up to two additional years based on satisfactory performance. These 12-month, full-time positions offer valuable experience for those pursuing faculty roles at primarily undergraduate institutions or lecturer positions in higher education.

Teaching and Research Opportunities

PATS scholars contribute to undergraduate biology education by leading discussion sections and/or laboratory courses. In their second year, they have the opportunity to design and teach an undergraduate course in their area of expertise.

In addition to teaching responsibilities, scholars engage in one of two research tracks:

1. Laboratory Research – Conduct research in collaboration with a faculty mentor within the Department of Biology. Summers are primarily devoted to research activities. Interested candidates should identify and contact a potential faculty mentor to develop a research plan.
2. Curriculum Development & Pedagogical Research – Work on curriculum improvements and/or educational research projects in collaboration with course instructors. If interested in this track, please reach out to Dr. Kale Hartmann (hartma@bu.edu) to discuss currently available opportunities.

Contact Information

For further details or to discuss potential research and curriculum development opportunities, please reach out to Dr. Kale Hartmann (hartma@bu.edu)