External Lecturer – Happiness Lab: Positive Psychology – DIS Copenhagen

Teach undergraduate students from North American universities who are spending a semester studying in Copenhagen, Denmark. The course ‘Happiness Lab’ is an optional elective course for students who are concurrently enrolled in the Positive Psychology core course at DIS. In this experiential lab course, students will design interventions to improve wellbeing, apply theories of positive psychology to understand individual and group behavior, and explore strategies for different types of organizations to facilitate human flourishing. The course is offered on Thursdays from 13.15-16.10 at DIS Copenhagen.

Read more about the ‘Happiness Lab: Positive Psychology’ course here

Tasks

• Develop, prepare, and evaluate course curriculum, content, materials, and methods of instruction (course materials from previous semesters are available for reference)
• Deliver lectures, lead academic visits (field studies) throughout Copenhagen, and facilitate classroom discussions
• Evaluate and grade students’ work

Relevant skills and knowledge

• Master’s degree in psychology or closely related field is required; PhD in psychology is preferred
• Work experience from your field of expertise
• Excellent academic English and capable of teaching in English
• Interest in instructing undergraduate-level students from North American institutions
• Ability to be legally employed in Denmark (this position does not come with a work visa)

Teaching requirements

This is a part-time teaching position, so faculty are welcome to continue their full-time work while teaching. Salary is based on an AC Agreement. Faculty are expected to work 10 hr/week at DIS with the following breakdown:

• Teaching: 3hr once a week 
• Preparation and grading: 7hr a week

Start Date: Semester runs January 18-May 13, 2026. Training and onboarding is planned on an individual basis. There may also be an opportunity to continue teaching the same course in future semesters.

Student profile & Teaching at DIS

Teaching at DIS requires creativity and flexibility. Faculty prioritize bringing course material to life through interactive, experiential learning, and are communicative and engaged with their students.

Most students enrolled in Happiness Lab course study psychology at their North American university, but disciplines often expand beyond this area. Students are typically in their third year of university. Courses are all taught in English.

Pedagogical support, training, and mentorship is available at DIS through the Learning Lab and experienced faculty; faculty are encouraged to collaborate with academic support staff in various professional development opportunities.

About DIS

DIS is a non-profit study abroad foundation established in Denmark in 1959, with locations in Copenhagen and Stockholm. DIS provides semester, academic year, and summer programs taught in English, and offers high-impact learning experiences for upper-division undergraduate students from distinguished North American colleges and universities. The intellectually challenging curriculum is broad, cutting edge, and enriched by experiential learning components, including faculty-led study tours across Europe.

Learn more about DIS – Study Abroad here

DIS work values & styles

• Cross-cultural learning
• Independence and initiative
• Communication
• Creativity in the classroom
• Professional development and relationship-building 
• Friendly work environment
• High-quality support & resources for faculty 
• Collaborative co-working spaces and environment

Application process

If you are interested in applying, submit a resume and application letter in English using the link below. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For further information, please contact the Program Director Dr. Suman Ambwani at sam@dis.dk.