Preceptor in Mathematics

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, 2025.  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
• 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:  Please submit the following materials through mathjobs.org:

https://www.mathjobs.org/jobs/

All applications received by  December 1, 2024 will receive full consideration.

Please submit the following materials through mathjobs.org:

1. Cover letter, including a description of the candidate’s teaching/advising philosophy and practices as well as their approach to creating a learning environment in which every student is encouraged to ask questions and share their ideas.
2. Curriculum Vitae
3. Names and contact information of three to five referees, who will be asked by a system-generated email to upload a letter of recommendation once the candidate’s application has been submitted. Three letters of recommendation are required, and the application is considered complete only when at least three letters have been received.
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. A service statement describing your efforts to strengthen academic communities, e.g., your department, institution, and/or professional societies.  

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

Harvard’s Mathematics Department celebrates the multiple dimensions of diversity that each member of our community offers, including diversity of background, perspective, and lived experience. We strongly welcome applications from persons from underrepresented groups.

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.

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

Contact Email:  mainoffice@math.harvard.edu