Obtaining a faculty position at a primarily undergraduate institution (PUI)

Christina King-Smith,Caroline Lund Dahlberg,Blake Riggs

doi:10.1186/s12919-021-00207-6

Christina King-Smith, Caroline Lund Dahlberg + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12919-021-00207-6

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Abstract

Scientists who hope to obtain a faculty position at a primarily undergraduate institution (PUI) need a distinct skill set and outlook on their future teaching and research career. To obtain a position at a PUI, candidates should 1) design a strategy for obtaining a faculty position that suits each individual’s career goals and aspirations, 2) prepare for the application process, on-campus interview, and contract negotiations, and 3) plan a strategy for the probationary period leading up to tenure and promotion. Given the different types of PUIs, candidates need to consider whether they seek a position that consists of all or mostly all teaching, or both teaching and research. Candidates should educate themselves on the expectations at PUI’s, including current thought, practice, and aspirations for science pedagogy, and gain teaching experience prior to seeking a suitable position. If the candidate’s goal is a position with both teaching and research, it is important to discuss with the current research mentor what projects the candidate can take with them to their new position. The candidate should also consider what types of projects will be successful with undergraduate student researchers in a PUI research environment. Importantly, candidates should clearly demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion in their teaching, research, and outreach, and application materials should demonstrate this. On interviews, candidates should be knowledgeable about the mission, values, and resources of the institution and how the candidate will contribute to that mission. Once hired, new faculty should discuss a formal or informal mentoring plan during the probationary period that includes peer evaluations on a regular basis, and maintain communication with the department chair or designated mentor regarding teaching, research, and service activities.

Highlights

Why work at a primarily undergraduate institution? Scientists who have positions at primarily undergraduate institutions (PUIs) have at least one commonality: they are passionate about teaching and learning with undergraduate students
A faculty position at a PUI is not a “fall back” job for scientists who aspire to careers at research universities
This paper summarizes three main stages of obtaining a position at a PUI: identifying, preparing, and applying for a position; the interview process and negotiation, and achieving success during the probationary period leading to tenure and promotion

Summary

Introduction

Scientists who have positions at primarily undergraduate institutions (PUIs) have at least one commonality: they are passionate about teaching and learning with undergraduate students. For adjunct or Visiting Faculty interested in full-time teaching at a PUI in the future, it can be helpful to discuss career goals with the department chair.

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Conclusion