Volunteer Dean of Medical Science - Foundational Sciences (Ages 8-17)

Job Title: Volunteer Dean of Medical Science - Foundational Sciences (Ages 8-17)

Classification: Volunteer

Reports to: Board of Advisors

Time Commitment: 4 hours per week

About STEM Canada:

STEM Canada is a registered not-for-profit global program specializing in an advanced, STEM-based educational curriculum emphasizing the interconnected subject areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The STEM program is open to all students from preschool to high school with the mission to deliver top-notch STEM literacy and application, designed to teach students in the STEM fields, yielding globally competitive results.

Position Purpose:

The Volunteer Dean of Medical Science - Foundational Sciences (Ages 8-17) for students aged 8-17 will serve as a key mentor and educational leader. This role is designed to guide students in intermediate medical sciences, including Medical Sciences, Histology, Immunology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Endocrinology, and Neuroscience. The Dean will develop and lead hands-on, age-appropriate learning programs, train volunteer instructors, foster curiosity, coordinate virtual learning, and mentor students in both their scientific understanding and personal growth.

Qualifications:

• Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the youth medical science online platform.
• Passion for engaging children and teens in a virtual learning environment.
• Proven ability to lead and collaborate with instructors and volunteers to deliver complex, age-appropriate science content.
• Strong enthusiasm, adaptability, patience, and supportive attitude with diverse student groups.
• Experience creating, organizing, and leading youth-centered programs in intermediate medical sciences or a related field.
• Experience supervising educational staff or volunteers.
• At least one season of leadership in youth education or related programs is preferred.

Essential Job Functions:

Educational Leadership and Engagement:

• Lead and oversee planning to facilitate engaging virtual learning experiences for ages 8-17, ensuring that intermediate medical science activities meet age-appropriate learning outcomes.
• Cultivate a positive, inclusive learning environment, encouraging curiosity and enthusiasm for topics such as histology, immunology, and pharmacology.
• Collaborate with instructors to align educational content with program goals and the developmental needs of students.

Program Design and Facilitation:

• Develop tailored lessons for different age groups (8-12 and 13-17), covering topics in intermediate medical sciences.
• Use interactive teaching methods, including simulations, demonstrations, and case studies, to enhance understanding of complex scientific concepts.
• Adapt content to accommodate diverse learning styles and ensure accessibility for all participants.
• Lead a steering committee to schedule relevant guest speakers, appearances, and live events.

Volunteer Training and Mentorship:

• Foster a supportive volunteer community by offering guidance, feedback, and collaboration opportunities.
• Act as a resource for teachers and volunteers, sharing tools and strategies to optimize student engagement and learning outcomes.

Well-Being and Safety:

• Promote a safe, inclusive, and encouraging online learning environment, addressing students' social-emotional and learning needs.
• Ensure adherence to platform policies related to online safety, privacy, and conduct, and serve as a mentor to uphold a respectful virtual environment.

Be a Role Model to Teachers and Volunteers:

• Model ethical online conduct, respect, and professional communication, setting a positive example for all.
• Encourage respectful collaboration and support for diverse perspectives within the learning community.
• Foster a culture of curiosity, respect, and passion for science that aligns with the platform’s values and mission.

Leadership Responsibilities/Tasks:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for instructors and volunteers, aligning with program goals to support student engagement.
• Work closely with HR to ensure volunteers are prepared with the tools, encouragement, and guidance needed for impactful teaching experiences.
• Oversee compliance with virtual health, safety, and emergency protocols.
• Support and coach teachers, ensuring they feel valued and guided in their roles.
• Assign instructional responsibilities to volunteers and provide ongoing coaching and resources.
• Organize and lead regular virtual meetings with volunteers to review progress and address any challenges.
• Report student concerns or safety issues to the Program Director, collaborating on interventions and maintaining open communication.

SMAC is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome and encourage applications from all religious backgrounds, persons of colour, women, Indigenous/Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, and others who can contribute to the diversification of our community.

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and a cover letter to

volunteer@stemcanada.ca

We thank you for your interest in this opportunity; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Interested individuals should submit their resume for immediate consideration.