Associate Concentration Advisor for Molecular & Cellular Biology and Chemical & Physical Biology @ Harvard University

July 2, 2020

Job Summary
Independently assess the needs of the student body, develop and organize educational, social and cultural activities.

Job-Specific Responsibilities
The position of Associate Concentration Advisor will work closely with the Head Tutors and Assistant Director of Undergraduate Studies of the Chemical and Physical Biology (CPB) and Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) Concentrations. Advises undergraduates who are interested in or have declared the CPB or MCB concentration, providing guidance on course selection and concentration requirements. Update concentration-related literature. Facilitates the process of finding appropriate labs and research mentors for students. Assists with coordinating the honors process and the Biochemical Sciences Tutorial Program. May teach undergraduate courses (ordinarily one per year) as determined by field of expertise and the needs of the concentrations. May guide and advise undergraduates on writing assignments (progress reports, thesis proposals, senior thesis).

Specific responsibilities include the following, plus other duties as required:

  • Regular advising meetings with (on average) 150+ undergraduate students, including concentrators in MCB and CPB, students with secondary fields, joint concentrators, and pre-concentrators.
  • Coordinating with faculty and faculty deans about student issues.
  • Academic record keeping
  • Oversee thesis process (workshops, check-ins, feedback, and informational meetings).
  • Provide formal intensive writing assistance for students in research, including for required research courses: 91 and 99.
  • Participate in Life Sciences and MCB and CPB community events.
  • Teach undergraduate courses based on needs of the concentrations (ordinarily 1 course per year); help reform an existing course; or develop a new course.
  • Oversee the administrative needs (appointments and processes) for Board of Tutors in the Biochemical Sciences comprised of ~100 members. The Board of Tutors in Biochemical Sciences, which was established in 1926, runs the Tutorial program for the Molecular and Cellular Biology concentration and the Chemical and Physical Biology concentration. The tutorial program (a requirement for all MCB and CPB Concentrators) offers individualized instruction to all concentrators beginning at the time of declaration. Concentrators typically meet with their tutors every two weeks and discuss primary research literature in a small group or one-on-one setting. Mentoring on career choices, the research experience, and other academic matters is a logical extension of the tutorial.

Typical Core Duties

  • Develop and implement programs to enhance the quality of the student experience; manage processes, outreach, content and finances
  • Act as a primary advising resource for students and faculty program requirements, academic degree progress, leaves of absence, cross-registration, adviser selection, and quality of life
  • Manage events and conferences including developing content, structure, and publicity, coordinating with other Harvard offices and groups, and managing logistical details
  • Advise student organizations on a variety of matters including risk reduction strategies, safe alcohol management, budgeting and goal setting
  • Produce and analyze reports to analyze program and event data
  • May determine accessibility eligibility and promote available resources and available options
  • May work with the Title IX office on best practices and coordination of the University's overall response to Title IX issues
  • Develop and implement comprehensive event management training programs for student organization leaders
  • Interpret and clarify local and University policies and procedures for student leaders
  • Ensure compliance with University policies and procedures and applicable legal rules and regulations

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience required
  • Minimum of 5 years' relevant work experience

Additional Qualifications

  • PhD in a field related to Molecular and Cellular Biology or Biochemistry will be required as this position will also hold a concurrent dependent Lecturer appointment.
  • Experience teaching and mentoring undergraduates and with scientific research.
  • Demonstrated commitment to undergraduate education and student life
  • Ability to work with diverse constituencies
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, advanced Excel skills
  • Ability to work with students, student organizations, colleagues, clients and external organizations
  • Experience working with Harvard undergraduates preferred
  • Communication skills (both written and verbal)

Physical Requirements

  • Sitting using near vision use for reading and computer use for extended periods of time
  • Lifting (approximately 20 to 30 pounds), bending, and other physical exertion

Working Conditions

  • Work is performed in an office setting
  • May be required to work nights and weekends

Additional Information
We invite individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and abilities to be a part of our community

Job Function
Faculty & Student Services

Location
USA - MA - Cambridge

Job Code
S0357P FSS Student Service Officer III

Sub-Unit
*
Department
Life Sciences Education


Time Status
Full-time

Salary Grade
057

Union
00 - Non-Union, Exempt or Temporary

Pre-Employment Screening
Education, Identity

Schedule
35 hours per week

EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

Contact:

Harvard University

Online App. Form:

https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?partnerid=25240&siteid=5341&PageType=JobDetails&jobid=1526018