External Lecturer – Principles of Chemistry – DIS Copenhagen
About DIS
DIS is a non-profit study abroad institution with locations in Copenhagen and Stockholm, offering rigorous, credit-bearing semester, academic year, and summer programs taught in English. Established in Denmark in 1959, and expanded to Sweden in 2016, DIS offers students enrolled in North American colleges and universities engaging and challenging coursework enriched by faculty who teach what they do, hands-on learning opportunities, and experiential Study Tours in Sweden and across Europe. Cultural engagement opportunities integrate students into the local culture and students gain academic knowledge and intercultural skills to prepare for a globalized world. DIS students are usually undergraduate juniors or seniors (in their 3rd or 4th year of a 4-year degree) from highly selective North American institutions.
About the position
DIS Copenhagen is hiring an external lecturer to teach the course “Principles of Chemistry I". The course begins August 2025 and course preparation is expected in spring or summer 2025. The course is offered every fall term (mid August to mid December). Course load includes 23 lectures (80 minutes each) and 2 Field Studies in the Copenhagen region (4 hours each) per term, plus student assessment, grading, and feedback.
At DIS, lecturers prioritize bringing course material to life through interactive, experiential learning, and are communicative and engaged with their students. Pedagogical support, training, and mentorship is available at DIS through the Learning Lab and experienced faculty. Lecturers have the option of collaborating with academic support staff in various professional development opportunities.
Course Description
This course delves into fundamental concepts and theories within the field of chemistry. These include atoms and atomic structure, molecules and compounds, chemical bonding and intermolecular forces, and states of matter. Students will also explore the principles of chemical reactions and thermodynamics, gaining a foundation in both qualitative and quantitative analysis. Through a combination of lectures and problem-solving exercises, students will develop an understanding of how chemical principles apply to real-world scenarios.
There are many good reasons to teach at DIS, including opportunities to:
- Work in an international, informal, and enthusiastic academic environment with an emphasis on cross-cultural understanding, teamwork, innovation, collegiality, and adaptability
- Develop interactive, experiential teaching skills and teaching experience in English
- Enhance the cultural competencies of U.S.-based students and emerging professionals by sharing your knowledge of Scandinavia and local best practices
- Expand professional networks throughout Denmark and the United States
Main tasks and responsibilities as part-time faculty
- Revise and finalize the syllabus for the course, in collaboration with DIS staff
- Teach at DIS Copenhagen. Teaching format includes classroom lectures, discussions, active learning activities, experiential learning activities, and Field Studies.
- Assess students’ performance, grade assignments, and provide feedback to students throughout the course
- Participate in meetings and workshops aimed to develop pedagogical skills in line with the DIS teaching philosophy
Professional competencies
- Relevant background (higher degree, Ph.D. preferred) and hands-on expertise within the field of the course
- Candidate should be open to pedagogical support from DIS and capable of incorporating DIS’ interactive and hands-on teaching philosophy into teaching practice
- Experience in creating a structured and interactive learning environment is an advantage
Application Process
Please submit your CV and application letter, addressing the professional competencies above, in English. Applications will be processed as received.
Contact Information
For additional information, email CE@dis.dk.
Diversity and Inclusion at DIS
At DIS, we believe that embracing diversity in all aspects of the learning and working environment is necessary for our students and employees to reach their full potential. We want to create a community in which each member feels welcomed and supported, across all identities and life experiences. This includes, but is not limited to, diversity of race, ethnicity, gender and sexual identities and socio-economic background.
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. It provides students with opportunities for meaningful cultural engagement and personal growth, which is further enriched through housing and extracurricular offerings.
