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Casual Biology Instructor

​COMPETITION NUMBER: 1286
CLOSING DATE: JUNE 23, 2025 @11:59PM MST

 

 

FACULTY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

 

The Arts & Sciences Diploma Program is seeking qualified candidates for one or more casual instructor positions to teach a number of Biology courses (listed below) in the 2025/2026 academic year.

 

Reporting to the Program Chair, the instructor will work alongside like-minded individuals dedicated to helping our students acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies required to meet learning outcomes for transfer to Bachelor’s degree programs. The Faculty of Arts & Sciences is home to a passionate team of educators who strive to live our NorQuest values and honour the spirit of Treaty 6 both in and outside of the classroom. We are committed to anti-racism, decolonization, diversity, inclusion, and equity.

 

Applicants must have a minimum Master's Degree in Biology (in hand) and subject matter expertise aligned with the course descriptions below, with teaching experience in introductory (first and second year university equivalent) courses strongly preferred. Please note that applicants should be available to teach one or more courses as scheduled, and are required to conduct both lecture and laboratory components.

 

Instructors are responsible for delivering course content in the designated modality, student assessment, teaching preparation, and student assistance. Curriculum materials and LMS resources are available for all courses and instructors are welcome to make use of existing content and/or develop their own in accordance with the course outlines.

 

Please note this is a casual position, commencing in August in preparation for the Fall 2025 term. Classes begin September 2 and must be delivered in person at our downtown Edmonton campus.

 

Biology 1007: Introduction to Cell Biology (Fall 2025)

Lecture: Mondays 9:30am-12:30pm

Lab: Wednesdays 12:30-3:30pm

 

This course provides an introduction to cell structure and the function of prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Major topics include the chemical and molecular composition of cells, subcellular components, metabolism, and information flow.  These topics address how cells harvest and use energy, how cells reproduce, and how information in DNA is stored, transmitted, processed, and regulated.

 

BIOL 2007: Principles of Genetics (Fall 2025)

Lecture: Wednesdays 2:00pm-5:00pm

Lab: Thursdays 11:00am-2:00pm

 

This course provides a thorough exploration of genetics, spanning from foundational principles to cutting-edge experimental techniques and ethical considerations. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and hands-on laboratory experiences, students will unravel the mysteries of genes, chromosomes, and the intricate molecular pathways that govern life's genetic blueprint. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to both classical and modern genetic study techniques, equipping them with the analytical tools necessary to decipher genetic complexities. Students will consider some of the methods used to research genetic principles and manipulate genetic material. Moreover, ethical considerations surrounding genetic research and applications will be thoroughly explored, prompting critical reflection on the societal implications of genetic advancements.

 

BIOL 2008: Ecology (Fall 2025*)

Lecture: Mondays & Fridays 2:00pm-5:00pm

Lab: Wednesdays & Fridays 8:00am-11:00pm

*note that this is a condensed course that runs late-October through December.

 

This course introduces students to ecology, a branch of biology that examines interactions between organisms and their environment. These include interactions at the individual, population, community, and ecosystem levels. Topics include general concepts in ecology, ecology of individuals, ecology of populations, interspecies interactions, and community and ecosystems exploration. Laboratory work includes field collection and lab analysis of ecological data.

 

BIOL 1008: Organisms in their Environment (Winter 2026)

Lecture: Mondays 3:30pm-3:30pm

Lab: Fridays 9:30am-12:30pm

 

This course examines the diversity of life on earth from the origins of life through the evolution of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.  Using a phyletic approach to classification, the major taxonomic groups of organisms are introduced, including prokaryotes, numerous protists, plants, fungi, and animals. Features that adapt these organisms to their environment are emphasized using Darwinian evolution as the underlying principle.

 

BIOL 2005: Fundamentals of Plant Biology (Winter 2026)

Lab: Mondays 11:00am-2:00pm

Lecture: Tuesdays 8:00am-11:00am

 

This course introduces students to plant biology, including plant taxonomy and its various applications, and basic anatomy and morphology of plants with an overview of the phyla in the Plant Kingdom. Special emphasis is placed on the relationship between structure and function and how these have influenced plants adaptation, reproduction, and evolution in diverse ecosystems. The course also highlights the various evolutionary and symbiotic relationships that exist in the plant kingdom. The laboratory component of the course focuses on plant identification, standard herbarium techniques, and descriptive analysis of plant morphology. Students will apply these fundamentals in plant biology to conduct experiments using the scientific method.

 

HOW YOU'LL MAKE A DIFFERENCE:

 

  • Prepare and deliver instructional material for in-person courses.
  • Engage students in the co-creation of knowledge and facilitate students’ learning through materials and instructional practices that are in alignment with universal design principles and NorQuest College values of anti-racism, decolonization, and inclusivity.
  • Conduct laboratory-based learning activities, supervise student participation lab environments, and ensure safety and lab protocols are followed at all times.
  • Evaluate student performance, progress, learning outcomes, and experiences through authentic and relevant assessment practices.
  • Maintain student and program records in accordance with College requirements.
  • Communication with other instructional team members.
  • Use applicable educational technology such as Moodle (misiwe) and PeopleSoft.

 

WHAT YOU BRING:

 

  • Master’s degree (minimum) in Biology
  • Subject matter expertise, including research and/or teaching experience, in applicable topics, including: cell biology, ecology, genetics, microbiology, etc.
  • Teaching experience at the first-year university/undergraduate level
  • Undergarduate-level biology lab experience
  • Experience using Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Moodle

 

WHAT MAKES YOU A DIFFERENCE MAKER?

As a difference maker, you bring:

 

  • Demonstrated commitment to teaching and learning
  • Dedication to anti-racism, Indigenization, decolonization, equity, diversity, and inclusiveness (EDI) initiatives, and anti-oppressive teaching practices
  • Understanding of and respect for students’ diverse academic and cultural backgrounds
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, particularly with students

 

SALARY:  Reflective upon what you bring AKA your education and experience. Plus an additional 11.2% in lieu of benefits and vacation. This is a Faculty role therefore the pay range is quite large, the Faculty Association agreement outlines how pay is determined.

 

 

 

We offer flexible work options. We strive for balance between a flexible work environment, connectedness to the campus community, and ensuring NorQuesters are set up to succeed in their roles and responsibilities.

 

Additional Information: Pre-Employment Checks will be completed to assess the candidate’s suitability for a role. These checks may include (but are not limited to): references, criminal record check, academic verification, etc.

 

For applicants who have completed post-secondary studies from outside of Canada, it is recommended they obtain an assessment of their credentials from a recognized Canadian Credential Evaluator, such as:

  • International Qualifications Assessment Service https://www.alberta.ca/international-qualifications-assessment
  • World Education Services https://www.wes.org/ca/

 

We encourage applicants to include the assessment certificate as part of their application.

 

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies, across NorQuest College, at the same or lower classification level.

 

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: We're on a journey to become an inclusive, anti-racist, and decolonized organization. NorQuesters are trailblazers – we are curious, creative, and innovative - our lived experiences are honoured, creating accessibility and a sense of belonging for everyone.

 

NorQuest 2030 We Are Who We Include shares our strength and difference comes from who is included, and along with our students we are learning and growing to listen deeply and say what we feel.

 

NorQuest College is committed to being an employer of choice for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people by recognizing, respecting, and supporting Indigenous people's self-determination through the institution’s work in decolonization, reconciliation, and Indigenization.

 

Accessibility: At NorQuest, we are who we include. We strive to provide access and accommodation throughout the recruitment, application, and selection process. We want to create opportunities for you to confidently be your authentic self. If you would like an accommodation at any stage of the process, please reach out to Careers@norquest.ca.

 

Apply to Become a NorQuester: If this opportunity delights you and your expertise will shine in this role, we invite you to apply for this position online by uploading your resume and cover letter combined as one document.

 

PSST: Only candidates shortlisted for an interview will be contacted and we’ll make sure to do this within 28 days of the closing date.

 

Apply now »