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The Faculty of Health Sciences will be accepting TA applications for the Spring Semester 2027 from October 26 to November 9, 2026, at 23:55.

Listed below are courses that will have tutorials and the courses that might require marking support. All courses will take place on the Burnaby campus.

HSCI courses with tutorials that will need TA support:

• 100, 130, 207, 211, 212, 220, 319W, and 803

Lab HSCI course that will need TA support:

• 336, 440, and 441

HSCI courses that might need TA marking support:

• 120, 204, 230, 305 (on-line), 312, 321, 324, 340, 341, 372, 402, 403, 410, 412, 424, 431, 432, 471, 477, 818, 821, 826, 827, 842, 897, and 901

The number of Base Units (BU) will depend on the course enrolment. The BU range for HSCI courses with tutorials is 2.17 – 5.17. The BU range for HSCI courses that need marking support is 2.17 – 4.17.

For the TA Pay Rates please visit TA Wage Schedules

Salary and conditions are determined by the

Course Specific Information

HSCI 319W: This is a writing intensive ethics course. TAs will be responsible for marking written work applying ethical theory to a public health context and leading tutorials discussing ethical theory and contemporary ethical issues in public health. TAs should have proficient writing and analytical skills and have familiarity with ethical theory. The number of TAs and base units (BU) will be dependent on enrollment: 2-3 TAs, 4.17-5.17 BU each.

HSCI 341: This applied epidemiology course involves application of fundamental epidemiological concepts and measures using real-world data (e.g., Canadian Community Health Survey data). The TA for this course is expected to lead workshop sessions a few times within the 3-hour class time, which primarily focuses on teaching how to use RStudio. Therefore, they should be familiar with basic epidemiological concepts and analytical skills and able to teach how to use the R/RStudio for importing datasets, manipulating data (e.g., restricting samples, creating variables), estimating measures of disease frequency and effect, and running bivariable regression analyses. The TA will also be asked to mark assignments. The number of TAs and base units (BU) will be dependent on enrollment: 1 TA, 3.17-4.17 BU.

HSCI 410: This advanced epidemiology course involves application of regression and exploratory data analysis techniques for health research. The TA for this course is expected to support students in the mastery of relevant knowledge and skills, which includes practical approaches to linear and logistic regression, multivariable modelling, interaction, variable selection, confounding, and measures of association. Therefore, they should be familiar with basic epidemiological concepts and analytical skills and able to teach how to use the R/RStudio for multivariable analyses across diverse data types and study designs. The TA will also be asked to mark assignments. The number of TAs and base units (BU) will be dependent on enrollment: 1 TA, 3.17-4.17 BU

Important! Please review the Spring 2027 Course schedule to check that you don't have time conflicts between courses in which you are enrolled and those you wish to TA.

First day of classes is January 5, 2027, and last day of exams is April 26, 2027.

Â鶹ÊÓƵis an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact robyn_bailey@sfu.ca.

Many departments include a wide range of specializations and, in order to be appointed, a person must have sufficient knowledge of the course to interpret the course material. Qualifications for the TA positions in HSCI courses include experience with course subject matter obtained either via successful coursework completed in the area or direct practical experience. Course subject matter can be found described in the Â鶹ÊÓƵcalendar: Spring Calendar - Â鶹ÊÓƵ

Qualified TAs will also have demonstrated proficiency in English communication skills, both oral and written.

Applicants will not be considered for a position in a course in which they are currently enrolled.

Please note: Applicants have the option of ranking specific course as preferred. Instructors will first review applications that have ranked their course as preferred; in the event that no job offer is made based on applicant preferences, instructors will then begin to review applications that have not ranked their course.

To apply visit

As part of the online application process you will be required to upload your cover letter/CV, transcript, and study/work permit (if applicable) as PDF documents. Please have these documents ready before starting the application process. Once your application has been finalized you will be notified by email to confirm that we have received it.

TA and Marking offers will be made between November 24 – 27, 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by email. Because of short timelines, only successful applicants will be contacted.

The Faculty of Health Sciences requires Sessional Instructors to teach the following course during the Spring 2027 term. The closing date for all posting is Thursday, November 5 at 23:59. (See the full posting as PDF) 

* RESERVE SESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR POSITION: Yes

While priority will be given to Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Fellows in awarding this RESERVED position, all Sessional Instructors are encouraged to apply. In the event the position is not filled by a Graduate Student or Postdoctoral Fellow, it will be filled by another qualified applicant in accordance with Article 14E of the Collective Agreement.

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Recommended Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduate degree in a related field with demonstrated expertise in the content areas covered by the course, as identified in the Calendar description and sample course outline.
• Experience teaching university-level courses.
• Evidence of teaching ability commensurate with the responsibility of teaching the assigned credit course and of carrying out the duties to the effective conduct of that course.

For the Sessional Instructor Pay Rates please visit: 2022-2024 Wage Schedules

Salary and conditions are determined by the

Course Calendar descriptions are located at /students/calendar/2027/spring/courses/hsci.html

Sample course outlines are shown on the page(s) following this ad.

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants should send, by the closing date shown above, one PDF document containing (1) a cover letter addressing the minimum qualifications for this posting and (2) a CV to:

Sessional Applications

c/o Dr. Scott Venners, Associate Dean, Education
Faculty of Health Sciences, Â鶹ÊÓƵ
Email: fhs_sessional@sfu.ca

In your email, include the following questions along with your responses:

1. Do you currently work for, or have you worked in the past for, Â鶹ÊÓƵ? (Respond yes or no. If yes, please provide your Â鶹ÊÓƵID, student/employee number if known.
2. Are you legally entitled to work in Canada? (Respond yes or no).
3. If you are currently on a work or study permit, please indicate expiry date and all conditions associated with your permit, if applicable.

Â鶹ÊÓƵis an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact robyn_bailey@sfu.ca

Course offerings are subject to budgetary approval and enrolment figures.

The information submitted with your application is collected under the authority of the University Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c.468, s. 27(4)(a)), applicable federal and provincial employment regulations and requirements, the University's non-academic employment policies and applicable collective agreements.

The information is related directly to and needed by the University to initiate the employment application process. The information will be used to contact references supplied by you, evaluate your qualifications and complete the employment process by making a hiring decision.

If you have any questions about the collection and use of this information please contact the Executive Director, Human Resources, Â鶹ÊÓƵ, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6. Telephone 778-782-3237.

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Sample course outline: HSCI 120-3

FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
HSCI 120-3 Introduction to Human Sexuality and Sexual Behaviour

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION

Introductory information about human sexuality across a broad spectrum of topic areas. Sexual function is a fundamental part of a full and healthy life, but misinformation, concerns, problems, and dysfunctions are prevalent. An evidence-based introduction to human sexual function and dysfunction, and normal psychosexual development across a range of sexual behaviors. A perspective on the effects of socialization on sexual attitudes and behavior. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS

Using an interdisciplinary and evidence-based approach, this course will examine human sexuality and sexual behaviour from public health, psychological, sociological, historical, biological, and clinical perspectives. Topic areas include: the history of sexology, major theories of sexuality, sex research methods, racism in sexual health research, gender identity, sexual/affectional orientation, sexual anatomy and physiology, reproduction, sexual dysfunctions, attraction, love, sexual behaviours and relationships, contraception, sexually transmitted infections, heterosexism, and sexual health education. Students will have opportunities to critically evaluate sexual health research and discuss portrayals of sexuality in the media and in various cultural contexts.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of the course, students should be able to:

1. Define key course terms and concepts (e.g., human sexuality, sexology, gender identity, and sexual orientation)
2. Explain major theories and research methods used in the study of human sexuality
3. Apply major theories of sexuality to scenarios involving sexual health problems and dysfunctions
4. Identify human sexual anatomy and related physiological processes
5. Describe the risk factors, screening, transmission, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections
6. Describe variations in sexual behaviours and relationships
7. Critically discuss portrayals of sexuality in the media and in various cultural contexts
8. Critically evaluate sexual health research
9. Develop an evidence-based sexual health campaign or education program based on a literature review and course content

REQUIRED TEXT & MATERIALS

All required course materials will made available in Canvas in PDF or other accessible electronic format

ASSIGNMENTS AND GRADING

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Sample course outline: HSCI 230-3

FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
HSCI 230-3 Evaluating Epidemiological Research

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION

Prepares students at a foundational level to evaluate and critique conclusions drawn from epidemiological research. Students will also experience the value and limitations of epidemiology as a tool for researching health and disease in populations. Prerequisites: 30 units, including HSCI 130 with a minimum grade of C-, or permission of the instructor. Students with credit for HSCI 330 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS

Instructional techniques will include lectures, in-class small group discussions, Canvas discussions, reading assignments, problem sets, quizzes, and written assignments. Further instructions, assignments, and lecture slides will be available through Canvas. Readings will include electronically available materials from library and on the web. The professor may make changes to the syllabus, if necessary, within Faculty / University regulations.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to:

• Define foundational concepts in epidemiology used to make inferences from research results.
• Identify, categorize, predict, and describe biases due to participant selection, confounding, or misclassification of exposure or outcome in realistic research scenarios.
• Critique epidemiological research using basic concepts of study design and bias.
• Connect personal interests or experiences with epidemiological research.
• Understand the limitations of epidemiology as a tool for health science-related knowledge.

GRADING

OPTIONAL TEXTBOOK

Essential Epidemiology: An Introduction for Students and Health Professionals, Fourth Edition (Nov. 29, 2019), by Penelope Webb, Chris Bain, Andrew Page.

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Sample course outline: HSCI 305-3

FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
HSCI 305-3 The Canadian Health System

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION

A comparative analysis of the Canadian health care financing and delivery systems and policies. History, organizational principles, health care resources, costs, access to care, quality, and equity. Societal and political issues, threats and values that affect Canada's health care system and others around the world. Prerequisite: 60 units, including nine HSCI units with a minimum grade of C-.

COURSE DETAILS

We will examine historic events and values that have shaped the development of health care systems in Canada. We will discuss arrangements for financing and delivery of health care and management of health human resources. We will consider the role of the courts and the impact of trade agreements in health policy. Throughout the course, we will explore current policy debates, including coverage for pharmaceuticals, primary care reform, privatization, and management of wait lists. Finally, we will compare Canada’s health care system to those in other countries. Given that health services research and government policies are constantly changing, the instructor may add other topics to reflect recent developments.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS

Competencies for BA and BSc programs in this course include:

• Health services and health policy (primary)
• Health systems and critical thinking (primary)
• Core concepts in population health (reinforcing)

GRADING

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES

All additional readings will be made available through Canvas.

REQUIRED READING

Deber, R.Treating Health Care: How the Canadian System Works and How It Could Work Better. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2017.

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Sample course outline: HSCI 412-3

FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
HSCI 412-3 – Health Communications

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION

This course seeks to integrate and apply knowledge from both academic disciplines and non-academic fields to jointly develop innovative, communications-based solutions to current human health challenges. Coursework emphasizes message planning, design and dissemination strategies and includes opportunities for individual and group work and options to work with community partners where possible.

COURSE DETAILS

The course is designed to teach Health Science students about health and risk communication theories and the tools used to create and disseminate health messaging. The course is applied in nature, providing multiple opportunities for students to design and create health communication messages in the areas of public and environmental health. Students will apply knowledge they have acquired in other Health Sciences areas such as health promotion, environmental health, health systems and health equity. Student assignments include individual and group work. There are weekly readings from the textbook and research articles with a reading log requirement for each week. This course will help students develop stronger communication and team building skills. A major theme for this term will be environmental health and climate change adaptation.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of the course, you will be able to:

• Describe the fields of Health Communication, Persuasion Science and how they are connected
• Research health communication strategies, solutions and techniques for crafting health messaging including data visualization, short videos, pod cast and press releases.
• Think creatively and apply knowledge to real-life scenarios, particularly those that use community engagement to foster health communication
• Create communication-related solutions for community settings and design strategies that allow for testing and evaluation of these solutions.
• Critically reflect on health communication as creative, adaptable and reflective processes to assist in the design of solutions that will contribute to health and well-being.

COURSE FORMAT

This course is delivered 3 hours per week, with some classes in-person and some offered via Zoom. A schedule of course delivery will be provided during the first lecture. A class may be cancelled or switched to zoom if the instructor becomes ill, is required to isolate, or provide care for a person who is ill or if there is a university closure such as a Snow Day.

ASSIGNMENTS AND GRADING

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Sample course outline: HSCI 432-3

FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
HSCI 432-3 – Seminar in Epidemiology

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION

The epidemiologic approach to health and disease in a population. Applying epidemiology to evaluation and policy. Prerequisite: HSCI 230 (or 330) with a minimum grade of C-.

COURSE DETAILS

This upper-level undergraduate course will provide a broad overview of infectious disease epidemiology from an interdisciplinary perspective, with a special emphasis on health surveillance, study design and statistical methods. The course will build upon knowledge gained in HSCI 230 and other upper level epidemiological and statistical courses. The course will take a case-study approach which requires students to complete or participate in group activities both in and outside of class. Students will develop a research question, identify a study design, and complete an abridged CIHR operating grant proposal.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

This course will provide students with a foundational knowledge of select interdisciplinary techniques and the ability to apply these techniques in their investigation of one or more infectious diseases.

By course end, students should be able to:

• critically analyze methodological approaches in epidemiology research
• apply concepts, ideas and methods to contemporary infectious disease cases; and
• develop oral and writing skills with special focus on infectious disease topics;

COURSE FORMAT

There is one 3-hour class each week that will consist of a mixture of lecture, small and large group discussion and exercises. An introductory lecture will be given to familiarize students with the necessary background to situate the assigned readings and exercises. Students MUST come prepared to actively participate and be engaged in all class activities having read the assigned readings.

ASSIGNMENTS AND GRADING

Students are required to complete four basic requirements for this course: (1) group or other exercises, (2) an exam, (3) grant outline and final proposal, and (4) operating grant presentation. Additional information about assignments will be provided in class and on Canvas.

Group-based

Individual-based

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Sample course outline: HSCI 482-3

FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
HSCI 482-3 Senior Seminar in Infectious Diseases

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION

An in-depth overview of newly emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in the context of disease prevention, surveillance and control. Prerequisite: HSCI 326 or MBB 326 or HSCI 338, with a minimum grade of C-.

COURSE DETAILS

An in-depth overview of newly emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in the context of disease prevention, surveillance and control. This course introduces you to infectious disease research and its developments at the molecular, individual, and societal levels. Emphasis is placed on the critical analysis of primary literature in infectious disease research. Learning activities will center on in class presentations and discussions based on published biomedical journal articles. Supplementary lecture content will be provided but will not be the course focus.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Students will gain foundational knowledge of select infectious diseases from an interdisciplinary perspective, developing skills to critically analyze and communicate research, evaluate real-world cases, and demonstrate expertise in pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical care, and societal impact. By completing this course, students will be able to:

• Develop critical thinking, independent inquiry and communication skills.
• Analyze real-world infectious disease cases and evaluate their broader implications.
• Apply effective strategies to communicate scientific information to lay audiences.
• Synthesize and present key findings from multiple research articles.
• Critically select, interpret, and discuss peer-reviewed journal articles within the context of course themes.
• Demonstrate expertise in a chosen topic area in the topic of Infectious Diseases and integrate knowledge across key domains of infectious disease research.

GRADING

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Policies

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.  Â鶹ÊÓƵ is committed to employment equity and welcomes applications from all qualified women and men, including visible minorities, Aboriginal people, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ-identified persons.

Equity 
The University is committed to the principle of equity in employment. (See Policy GP 19.)

Privacy 
The information submitted with your application is collected under the authority of the University Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c.468, s. 27(4)(a)), applicable federal and provincial employment regulations and requirements, the University's non-academic employment policies and applicable collective agreements.

The information is related directly to and needed by the University to initiate the employment application process. The information will be used to contact references supplied by you, evaluate your qualifications and complete the employment process by making a hiring decision.
If you have any questions about the collection and use of this information please contact the Executive Director, Human Resources, Â鶹ÊÓƵ, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6. Telephone 778-782-3237.