Scientific Communication Teaching Assistant - Summer 2026
DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a teaching assistant to support a scientific communication course for undergraduate students participating in our Institute’s Summer Research Program. This program is an intensive nine-week summer research opportunity designed for undergraduates with a commitment to biomedical research and an interest in genomics. The TA will work with an instructor who leads the course over nine weekly sessions. Through readings, discussions, and in-class activities, students will develop critical communication skills and work toward key deliverables. The course will focus primarily on oral scientific communication, incorporating elements of science writing and data visualization. Throughout the summer, students are expected to produce an abstract, a 30-second elevator pitch describing their work, a chalk talk, a poster, and a formal oral presentation. In addition, students will learn to evaluate presentations and give and receive constructive feedback. The goal of this course is to prepare students to master the key steps of preparing and delivering formal and informal presentations to describe their scientific work in a clear and compelling way to diverse audiences. By the end of the course, each student will present an oral presentation and a poster presentation to the Broad community.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist the instructor with course preparation and help with in-class exercises.
- Attend all class sessions (one evening session per week, 2.5-3 hours).
- Attendance at additional evening practice sessions may be required towards the end of the program.
- Provide students with constructive feedback on course materials, including in-session activities and homework assignments (e.g., abstracts, slides, etc.).
- Attend planning meetings with other members of the Science Communication team and BSRP program staff.
- Oversee the course website via Google Classroom, including posting weekly homework assignments and reading materials, and be the main point of contact for student questions regarding assignments.
- Maintain a weekly office hour and be accessible to students who may need additional support.
- Facilitate small group discussions and activities during breakout sessions.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in STEM or related discipline. Graduate students interested in Science/ Scientific Communication are especially encouraged to apply.
- Experience teaching, tutoring, or training in college-level curriculum/instructions
- Experience communicating complex scientific concepts to a lay audience
- Must demonstrate strength in oral and written communication, be able to multitask, and work both independently and collaboratively with a positive attitude
IMPORTANT LOGISTICS
- This is a temporary position running from mid-May through the second week in August and is not a Broad employment position.
- Classes happen in the evenings one day a week.
- Time commitment is approx. 6-9 hours per week. An additional 2-3 hours per week will be needed towards the end of the program.
- Must complete Broad Orientation on a Monday before the start of the course
