Propose an Introduction to Topics in Biochemistry course for academically motivated high school students in Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes.
Course Description Template
Example Course Description
Grades 8-11
The advancement of biochemical knowledge and techniques have led to the massive scientific and medical achievements that we see today. For example, the discovery of and artificial synthesis of insulin subsequently saved the lives of people with diabetes. Biochemistry is the study of molecular machines and processes that drive life around us. In this immersive two-week course, students will learn about the four essential macromolecules—proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids—and explore how their dysfunction can lead to major health issues.
Throughout the course, students will engage in live lectures, asynchronous assignments, small group learning activities, and group presentations. For the final group project, students will choose a topic that synthesizes concepts from multiple facets of biochemistry, such as CRISPR-Cas9, the keto diet, mRNA vaccines, bacterial antibiotic resistance, and why grapefruit interacts with certain medications. This course serves as an introduction for post-secondary biochemistry courses and will benefit future health sciences majors and pre-med students.
Asynchronous: 1-2 hours of daily work completing assignments, such as readings assigned readings and small group work.
Compensation
The compensation is set to be $5,000 - $5,610 per course assignment.
Course Design
- Instructors are responsible for determining the content and all assignments and activities for their course, including assignments for students to complete outside of class hours.
- Course content must be consistent with the course description posted on the Summer Institutes website; approval is needed for changes in course content that stray substantially from the course description.
- You must use only age-appropriate material; if you have any doubt about the appropriateness of your material, please consult with us.
- You will be required to submit a course syllabus for review prior to the start of the class.
- Additionally, you will be responsible for posting course materials on Canvas prior to the start of class.
- Design a course with a grade level in mind, i.e., 8-11, 8-9, or 10-11 at time of application.
Synchronous (Live) Sessions
Instructors are responsible for scheduling and facilitating 2 hours (with a break) of learning activities each weekday during your assigned time range. Courses are assigned to an AM or PM time slot for instruction. Instructional time should be interactive, combining lecture with lively classroom discussion, student presentations and small group activities.
The time blocks for instruction and office hours (AM or PM) are as follows:
- AM – 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM PDT
- PM – 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM PDT
Office Hours
In addition to live activities each weekday, you are also responsible for holding small group office hours at least twice per week during the instructional time block.
Self-Study
Each weekday students should be assigned asynchronous independent work, such as readings, videos, or lectures, or small group activities to complete group projects. The required assignments and activities should take no more than 3 hours each day. You may assign additional optional supplementary activities. All courses require at least 1 hour of self-study per day and no more than 3 hours.
Student Evaluations
You are required to complete an evaluation for each of your students. This task is due no later than two weeks after the end of the session. These evaluations are sent to the Summer Institutes participants along with their completion certificate. The evaluation will require your signature.
Orientation
New instructors are required to attend a virtual orientation session on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Commencement
You are required to attend a one hour commencement on the last day of the program. Instructors complete a slide about their course and speak for one minute about the course.
To apply
The priority deadline is Friday, Oct. 24th. The final deadline is Friday, Nov. 7th. Applicants are encouraged to apply early. We will continue to review applications and extend interview invitations on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. Email C.V., letter of interest, and, and proposed course description, to spcsinstruction@stanford.edu. Please use “Summer Institutes Instructor Application” in the subject line.
Contact: Tanner Strong, Assistant Director, Academic Operations, Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies
*Note: The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
*Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
*Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
*Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. All candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S. All candidates must be located in the U.S. during all work hours.