Fall 2026 Undergraduate TA for Genetics 311 Lecture

I am seeking 2-3 undergraduate teaching assistants (UTAs) to assist with my Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1:25-2:15 Genetics Lecture.  In this role, UTAs will gain teaching experience and increase their understanding and proficiency in genetics by supporting student learning through assisting peers with in-class activities, holding weekly office hours, answering questions, and providing guidance on course concepts and study strategies. UTAs must attend 2 of the 3  lecturers, hold one office hour, and attend a UTA meeting with the instructor weekly. 

 

Name of research group, project, or lab
BIO311 Genetics Lecture
Why participate in this opportunity?

This position is ideal for students who have excelled in their previous Genetics course(s) and are interested in deepening their understanding of the fundamentals of genetics while developing communication, teaching, and leadership skills. UTAs will receive 2 credits for supporting this lecture (~5-7 hours of work each week). 

 

Logistics Information:
Field(s) of Study
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Biology
Student ranks applicable
Junior
Senior
Student qualifications

Successful applicants will have completed BIO311 at UMass or equivalent courses at other institutions You should have an above-average understanding of fundamental genetics, be enthusiastic about working hard and helping your peers, and have good teamwork and communication skills.

Time commitment
5-7 h/wk
Position Types and Compensation
Credit for Research and Teaching
Number of openings
3
Techniques learned

UTAs will develop peer instruction strategies to help students reason through complex genetics concepts and misconceptions. They will also enhance their science communication skills through the explanation of the principles of genetics using clear, accessible language.

Project start
Fall 2026
Contact Information:
Mentor
Mary Pickering
marypickerin@umass.edu
Principal Investigator
Name of project director or principal investigator
Mary Pickering
Email address of project director or principal investigator
marypickerin@umass.edu
3 sp. | 5 appl.
Time commitment
5-7 h/wk
Field(s) of Study
Biology (+1)
Biochemistry & Molecular BiologyBiology