The UF Thompson Earth Systems Institute (TESI), housed at the Florida Museum of Natural History, has a mission to advance communication and education of Earth systems science – air, water, land, and life – in Florida, and beyond. One of its core programs is the Scientist in Every Florida School (SEFS) initiative, the mission of which is to engage K-12 students and teachers in cutting-edge research by providing science role models and experiences that inspire the future stewards of our planet.

Job Description

The K-12 education and outreach scientist will be hired to work as a member of the SEFS team to ensure Florida’s teachers and students are provided quality instructional support to help meet our institute’s goals. They will be responsible for virtual and in-person classroom visits to provide Florida sunshine state standard-aligned lessons; generate and lead science content livestream events at the request of teachers; meet with internal and external stakeholders to promote and assist in growing the program; innovate through lesson planning to connect content with students and support teachers’ instruction; and performing other relevant tasks as requested by TESI/SEFS leadership. This position will primarily be located in Marion County.

Position Expectations:

  • School outreach visits:  Co-develop with teachers, implement, and teach science lessons on Florida sunshine state standard-aligned content that relate to Earth systems and environmental science. These activities will include hands-on, authentic experience and place-based learning. Leading professional development workshops for teachers to better support their content and pedagogy knowledge and growth. (40%)
  • Science Fair Mentorship Program: Design and support middle and/or high school students through a six-month mentorship program. Mentor students from ideation, project design, data collection, to interview and communication preparation for judging. Visit 9 schools in Marion or Levy County working closely and supporting 20 students. (20%)
  • Outreach scheduling:  Facilitate conversations with stakeholders, including teachers and other school representatives, to coordinate and schedule virtual and in-person classroom visits. Work with school district leaders/administrators to analyze learning standard data and determine how and when to best address teacher and student needs. (10%)
  • Lesson creation: Research and draft lesson plans with cutting-edge science to be implemented in upcoming classroom visits. Using pedagogical knowledge to incorporate best science teaching practices to support teachers. Meet with and mentor teachers on science content as lesson plans are co-developed. (15%)
  • Community Outreach: Responsible for community engagement (i.e., participation in tabling events at Silver River Museum). (5%)
  • As needed: Perform other relevant tasks as requested by TESI and SEFS team members (5%)
  • Team Efforts: Attend planning and core team meetings; and attend Museum staff meetings (5%)

Expected salary: $50,000.00, commensurate with education and experience.

Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred qualifications:

  • Florida Department of Education teaching certificate (Professional or Temporary)
  • At least one year of experience in K-12 school outreach
  • Familiar with research-based teacher pedagogy and science communication strategies
  • At least two years of work experience teaching outdoors
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Highly organized and able to work independently
  • Ability to work on deadlines

Deadline: January 31, 2023

To apply, visit: https://explore.jobs.ufl.edu/en-us/job/524175/educationtraining-spec-i

For questions, contact: Brian Abramowitz, babramowitz@floridamuseum.ufl.edu