Non-tenure track faculty in chemistry departments are playing ever more important roles in the education mission of college and university programs, yet not every academic institution views these positions as career options. Careers for BS, MS, and PhD chemists are becoming increasingly diverse, and non-tenure track faculty often bring a wealth of non-academic experiences and passion to the classroom or laboratory that may enhance the student experiences. The growing pool of veterans with backgrounds in environmental health and safety who are seeking clinical teaching positions offers perspectives that few others may have. Chemists transitioning from industry who want to teach as a career change are also complementing the ranks of instruction. Teaching may be a passion and a talent that serves the long-term needs of a potential faculty member and a department. In any case, there are demands for non-tenure track faculty in almost any college or university. This presentation will provide a few case study examples of how colleges and universities could build professional career pathways that support non-tenure track faculty by offering milestone reviews, long-term contract security, and advancement options that celebrate their accomplishments.

Building an inclusive environment for non-tenure track faculty: Avoiding chutes and building ladders

254th National Meeting (2017)

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