TEACHING ASSOCIATE, POSTGRADUATE, CAS College of Arts & Sciences, Philosophy

Teaching Associate Philosophy Established in 1873, Arts and Sciences is Boston University's largest and most academically diverse unit, encompassing over 8,400 undergraduates, 2,000 graduate students, 800 faculty members, and 300 staff across 50 departments, programs, centers, and institutes. Our faculty are award-winning researchers, innovative teachers, and dedicated mentors committed to exploring the complexities of our present and past, uncovering new perspectives, and crafting creative solutions to real-world problems. Our staff are dynamic, mission-driven professionals who foster community, inclusion, and belonging to advance every aspect of the college enterprise. Our community thrives on collaboration, bold ideas, and interdisciplinary exploration.

Join us in supporting the pursuit of knowledge that changes the world and provides boundless opportunities to inspire the next generation of leaders. We offer generous benefits, including health, dental, and life insurance, tuition remission, retirement savings, paid time off, and holiday leave. The Department of Philosophy seeks a Teaching Associate to support faculty instruction and enhance student learning in undergraduate courses. The Teaching Associate will assist primary instructors with leading discussion sections, grading student work, holding office hours, and providing academic support to students. This is a nine-month appointment involving five discussion sections per semester and includes regular Boston University benefits. Renewal for an additional year may be possible based on enrollment needs and availability of funding.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and prepare five discussion sections each semester.
• Review assigned readings and course materials in advance of each section.
• Consult with the primary instructor regarding key concepts, themes, and learning objectives.
• Foster meaningful student engagement and discussion of philosophical texts and ideas.
• Grade quizzes, examinations, and written assignments for students enrolled across assigned discussion sections.
• Provide timely, constructive feedback to support student learning and development.
• Apply grading standards consistently and in accordance with instructor expectations.
• Provide guidance and assistance to Graduate Student Teaching Fellows in preparing weekly discussion sections.
• Share best practices for classroom facilitation and student engagement.
• Attend lectures two to three times per week.
• Take notes and consult with the instructor regarding key concepts and expectations for student performance.
• Stay informed about course content to effectively support students. Hold approximately five office hours per week, with additional availability as needed.
• Answer student questions, clarify course material, and assist with assignment preparation.
• Help students develop analytical reasoning, argumentative writing, and critical thinking skills.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• This position does not have formal supervisory authority but provides leadership and guidance to Graduate Student Teaching Fellows.
• The Teaching Associate reports directly to the Chair of the Department.

Required Skills

• Doctoral degree required.
• Academic background in Philosophy or a closely related field.
• One to three years of relevant teaching, instructional, mentoring, or academic support experience.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex philosophical concepts clearly and effectively.
• Strong organizational, grading, and student support skills. Ability to work collaboratively with faculty, teaching fellows, and students in a diverse academic environment.

Compensation and Benefits:

This is a nine-month appointment with eligibility for regular Boston University benefits. Continued appointment beyond the initial term may be considered based on departmental needs, enrollment levels, and available funding.