Position Description

Preceptor in Mathematics

(Teaching Focused Position)

Harvard University

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Department of Mathematics

Position Description: 

The Department of Mathematics seeks applications for a Preceptor in Mathematics.

The Preceptor position is designed for early career mathematicians who are looking for teaching and administrative experience to launch into a career that focuses on the practice of teaching mathematics and student success. The position provides an opportunity for professional development in mathematics pedagogy and education leadership. 

Math Preceptors work to promote an environment of diversity, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging in our introductory courses. They contribute to the department’s education mission of cultivating an enriching mathematical experience that instills a sense of community and intellectual belonging for all students. The multifaceted responsibilities include:

●       Collaboratively teaching two courses each semester as part of a closely coordinated team

●       Mentoring graduate students to become successful instructors

●       Undertaking substantial administrative tasks aimed at promoting our educational mission

The curriculum for introductory courses spans from precalculus to multivariable calculus and linear algebra and focuses on developing a conceptual understanding, framing mathematics as a sense making activity, and using mathematics to better understand the world.

The appointment is expected to begin on July 1, 2024.  The position is for an initial appointment of three years and may exceptionally be renewed for a second and final three years, contingent on performance, curricular need, position availability, and divisional dean approval.

Basic Qualifications:  The successful applicant should have an advanced degree in mathematics, mathematics education, or a related field.

Essential qualities include initiative, good pedagogical and mathematical judgment, and the ability to work well on a team.

Additional Qualifications:  We seek applicants who bring a sophisticated understanding of teaching and learning. We are particularly drawn to candidates who can:

●       Effectively incorporate active learning techniques into their practice

●       Make significant contributions to the Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, and Belonging (DIEB) initiatives within the mathematics community

●       Exhibit proficiency in managing administrative tasks

●       Pursue professional development opportunities and embody a growth mindset regarding their pedagogical practice.

●       Demonstrate expertise in the mentorship and professional development of fellow educators (graduate students and undergraduates)

Special Instructions:  

All applications received by December 1, 2023, will receive full consideration.

Please submit the following materials through mathjobs.org:

1. Cover letter, including a description of teaching experience and philosophy and comments on any efforts to encourage diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Names and contact information of 3-5 references (3 letters must be submitted to complete your application)
4. Teaching statement
5. A sample lesson plan -- preferably on a calculus topic -- that highlights how you teach for conceptual understanding, along with a description of the goals for each portion of the lesson and notes on how the lesson could be implemented by another instructor. 
6. Teaching portfolio, which should include:

●       A teaching video if you have one available.

●       Evidence of teaching success

7. Statement describing efforts to encourage diversity, inclusion, and belonging, including past, current, and anticipated future contributions in these areas. Specifically, we are interested in how you incorporate this into your classroom practice and classroom design.

Harvard’s Math Department is dedicated to fostering diversity within its faculty and strives to cultivate an inclusive and culturally diverse intellectual community. We actively encourage applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups, including women and minorities.

Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, military service, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or other protected status.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

Contact Information Pam Brentana, Harvard University, Mathematics Department, 1 Oxford. St., Cambridge, MA 02138

Contact Email:  mainoffice@math.harvard.edu