Outreach Educator, PA Society for Biomedical Research

Posted by Pennsylvania Society for Biomedical Research on February 21, 2023

Founded in 1990, PSBR’s mission is to promote a better public understanding of the value of biomedical research including the vital role of animal in improving the quality of human and animal health. PSBR is an independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that advances its mission primarily through science education. There is a growing need for rigorous, authentic science curricula that not only meet state and national science standards, but also provide relevant work-based experiences in the biomedical research field. PSBR meets this need through its SPARC (Science Program and Research Coach) education programming. SPARC offers all students the opportunity to engage in scientific and career exploration through hands-on lessons and activities using real-world equipment.

We are funded through membership, grants from the biomedical research community, and foundations with a commitment to public education. Learn more n about PSBR or our SPARC programs.

Position: In a full-time capacity, working in coordination with and reporting to the Director of Outreach and Education, the Outreach Educator will assist in the development, administration, evaluation, improvement, and expansion of PSBR’s educational programs. This may include, but is not limited to, developing novel and enhancing current curricula, conducting educational instruction via in-class and virtual programs, facilitating student and teacher workshops, training volunteers, and assisting with the development of grants to support programs.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a key educator for PSBR’s education programs;
• Provide high impact educational programs in K-16 classrooms;
• Develop and improve educational programs in alignment with PSBR’s strategic initiatives;
• Collect and analyze data to evaluate program effectiveness and reach;
• Assist in partnership development with educators and educational programs/organizations;
• Establish greater visibility of PSBR as a primary resource for biomedical research education in K-16 classrooms;
• Explore opportunities to include biomedical research education programs in formal K-16 instruction/ curricula;
• Assist in the development of grants to support PSBR’s outreach and education;
• Travel throughout Pennsylvania and the mid-Atlantic region.

Qualifications: The ideal candidate will possess a solid background in the Life Sciences with extensive knowledge of laboratory skills and techniques, have the ability to connect with student and adult audiences, be multilingual, and reside in the Philadelphia region.

Required qualifications include:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a science discipline or education;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills;
• Ability to handle and prioritize multiple projects while maintaining attention to detail;
• Ability to engage a wide range of audiences from school kids (K-12) to college, graduate and community groups;
• Possess knowledge of and/or dedication to a scientific discipline;
• Demonstrated commitment to public outreach;
• Sound judgment, strong interpersonal skills and professionalism;
• Ability to work with diverse groups of people;
• Patience, enthusiasm and a positive attitude;
• Willingness to travel;
• Ability to lift/move heavy boxes and equipment; and
• Commitment and passion for the mission of PSBR.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Post-graduate or equivalent work experience in education or training preferred;
  
• Residence in the Philadelphia region; and
  
• Teaching experience;
• Able to speak multiple languages (multilingual).

Inquiries can be emailed to David Garbe at David@psbr.org.