Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary

Anatomy Instructor
Assistant Professor
Associate Professor
Biological Sciences Professor
Biology Instructor
Biology Professor
Instructor
Lecturer
Physiology Instructor
Professor

What is a Biological Science Teacher, Postsecondary?

Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary instruct students in various biological sciences, including biology, microbiology, zoology, botany, and related fields. They typically work at colleges and universities, guiding undergraduate and graduate students through complex biological concepts and fostering a deeper understanding of living systems. These educators engage in lecturing, developing curriculum, and conducting laboratory experiments, which play a crucial role in the training of future scientists and health professionals. In addition to teaching responsibilities, they may also participate in research, publish findings in academic journals, and contribute to the academic community through service roles in committees or professional organizations. Their role is integral in shaping the next generation of biologists and helping to advance scientific knowledge through education and research.

Career Assessment
Career Assessment

Tasks

  • Evaluate and grade students' class work, laboratory work, assignments, and papers.
  • Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as molecular biology, marine biology, and botany.
  • Plan, evaluate, and revise curricula, course content, and course materials and methods of instruction.
  • Prepare materials for laboratory activities and course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
  • Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.

Technology Skills

Tools Used

Knowledge

  • Biology

    Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.

  • English Language

    Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

  • Mathematics

    Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

  • Chemistry

    Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

  • Education and Training

    Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Skills

  • Speaking

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Instructing

    Teaching others how to do something.

  • Learning Strategies

    Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

  • Active Learning

    Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Abilities

  • Oral Expression

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

  • Oral Comprehension

    The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

  • Speech Clarity

    The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.

  • Written Comprehension

    The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

  • Written Expression

    The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

  • Doctoral degree
    48 %
  • Post-doctoral training
    38 %
  • Master's degree
    12 %

Work Activities

  • Training and Teaching Others

    Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge

    Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

  • Working with Computers

    Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

  • Processing Information

    Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others

    Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

Detailed Work Activities

  • Evaluate student work.
  • Teach physical science or mathematics courses at the college level.
  • Develop instructional objectives.
  • Evaluate effectiveness of educational programs.
  • Develop instructional materials.

Work Interests

  • Social

    Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

  • Investigative

    Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.

  • Realistic

    Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

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Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$51670.0 - $171410.0

This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.

Assessment

Related assessments and tests

No assessment available.