Adjunct, Chemistry and Biochemistry

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Elmhurst University is searching for part-time adjunct faculty to start in late August 2026. Courses for instruction may include lectures and/or labs for general chemistry major, pre-nursing major (General or Organic and Biochemistry course), or general education levels. Organic chemistry labs for science majors may be an option depending on training.

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry serves 40-50 majors and a similar number of minors, participates in general education and supports students majoring in biology, nursing, exercise science, physics and environmental studies. Our department holds an endorsement from the American Chemical Society and offers majors in Chemistry and Biochemistry. We are committed to training a diverse population of students to become successful scientists in the career of their choice. The department offers a wide range of support to ensure we meet the needs of all students.

A successful candidate will be able to engage with students both inside and outside the classroom through evidence-based pedagogy and proactive mentoring. Course and laboratory design should include contemporary topics and techniques that follow best practices, include active learning methods and prepare students for jobs in modern labs.

Position Status: Exempt

Salary Range: The pay range is $3,800-$4,000 for a standard 1.0 credit (4 semester hour) course. New part-time faculty start at $3,800 (Adjunct Level 1).

Work Location: This position is ineligible for remote work.

Responsibilities

• Assigned course lecture and laboratory preparation
• Teaching and grading of courses
• Support of undergraduates enrolled in instructed courses

Other Responsibilities

• Supports the mission, vision, and values of Elmhurst University.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• M.S. in biochemistry or chemistry
• Desire to teach undergraduate students in a comprehensive liberal art setting

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biochemistry or chemistry
• Experience teaching undergraduate students

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

The essential functions of this position are primarily performed in an indoor setting with limited exposure to outdoor weather conditions. Work is often sedentary in nature and requires remaining in a stationary position for extended periods. Required abilities include speaking and hearing for in-person and virtual communication, using close and distance vision when reading documents or viewing screens, and performing tasks with repetitive fine motor skills. Work may require occasional lifting, bending, carrying, or otherwise moving objects weighing up to 15 pounds. Qualified applicants who can perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodations will be considered.

Work Hours

Lecture offerings are primarily during the day (8 am – 11:30 am) and Labs meet 1:00 – 4:30 pm (Monday – Friday)  and 4:40 – 7:40 pm (Tuesday). Term runs from Aug. 31 – Dec. 22.

An overview of Elmhurst University benefits is available here.

Instructions to Applicants

Please submit the following materials with application:

1. Curriculum vitae;
2. Cover letter addressing the listed qualifications;
3. Teaching philosophy;
4. Unofficial Transcripts

Applicants who proceed in the process will be asked to submit additional materials such as three references that can be contacted by the chair of the department.

If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Michelle Applebee, Chair of Chemistry and Biochemistry at applebee@elmhurst.edu. Review of credentials will begin May 22, 2026.