Posted: June 2, 2026
Aggregated from workday. View original posting at ubc.wd10.myworkdayjobs.com. Apply directly with the employer.
Sessional Lecturer, BEST 400 - Vancouver, BC is listed at UBC in UBC Vancouver Campus - Vancouver, BC. The Beaver Board aggregates this opening from the employer's career page — apply using the button below to reach the official application. Browse more jobs at UBC.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, British Columbia, is actively seeking a highly qualified part-time sessional lecturer to join its distinguished Department of Wood Science. This crucial teaching opportunity is situated within the innovative Bioeconomy Sciences and Technology (BEST) program, a cornerstone initiative of the Faculty of Forestry & Environmental Stewardship at UBC’s vibrant Vancouver campus. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering BEST_V 400: Biomimicry and Biocomposites for the 2026 Winter Session Term 1, which runs from September to December 2026. This sessional position is essential for students pursuing advanced studies in sustainable materials and bio-inspired design, offering a unique chance to shape the next generation of science professionals. The role offers a competitive salary of $4,000 per credit, reflecting the specialized expertise and commitment required for this advanced course.
The BEST_V 400 course is designed to provide students with a deep dive into bioinspired material design, natural structural systems, and advanced biocomposites, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of cutting-edge research and practical applications. Key topics covered will include structural colour, advanced adhesion techniques, antimicrobial materials, nacre-inspired structures, various types of fibres, and the fascinating field of self-healing materials. Students will also explore rheology in nature, stimuli-responsive systems, superwettability, innovative water harvesting methods, living materials, and the development of lightweight materials. The sessional lecturer's responsibilities will encompass delivering engaging core lectures, coordinating insightful guest lectures, facilitating dynamic class discussions, and effectively supervising teaching assistants. Furthermore, this role involves providing constructive feedback on student work, holding regular weekly office hours, and meticulously assessing quizzes, reports, presentations, and final project papers. A significant and practical component of the course involves student projects, where learners are challenged to develop biomimetic designs for practical applications, thereby applying theoretical science concepts to real-world challenges.
Candidates for this sessional teaching role must possess a strong academic foundation, evidenced by a completed PhD or current PhD candidate status, in fields such as Forestry, Materials Science, Chemical/Biological Engineering, Polymer Science, Wood Science, or a closely related discipline. Essential qualifications include a robust understanding of biomaterials, bio-based composites, biomimicry, polysaccharides, (bio-)fabrication, and rheology. Preference will be given to applicants who can demonstrate prior teaching or teaching assistant experience specifically in biomimicry, biocomposites, or closely related courses. The ability to effectively connect fundamental science concepts with current research developments in bio-based materials is highly valued. Extensive research experience in biomimicry systems pertinent to the lecturing topics, alongside experience working in interdisciplinary research environments involving materials science, engineering, and biological systems, will be considered a significant asset. Familiarity with the BEST program or similar interdisciplinary curricula is also advantageous, with previous teaching assistant experience in BEST courses being particularly beneficial. Equity and diversity are paramount to academic excellence at UBC, fostering an inclusive environment where all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, with priority given to Canadians and permanent residents.
