Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana (UPB), a leading private Catholic university in Colombia, offers diverse career opportunities for academics, researchers, and professionals. Founded in 1936 in Medellín, UPB has expanded to multiple campuses, including one in Bucaramanga, Santander, making it a key employer in higher education across the country. Jobs at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana span faculty positions, research roles, and administrative jobs, attracting talent passionate about education and innovation.
The university emphasizes excellence in teaching, research, and community service, aligned with its Jesuit values. With over 30,000 students and programs in engineering, medicine, law, business, and humanities, UPB provides stable careers in a dynamic academic environment. Positions are posted on their official site and platforms like higher ed jobs listings.
Established by the Pontifical Bolivarian University Society under the auspices of the Catholic Church, UPB began as a response to the need for quality higher education in Colombia. Its Santander campus in Bucaramanga opened later to serve the northeastern region, focusing on regional development through education. The university's mission integrates academic rigor with ethical formation, preparing professionals for societal impact.
Today, UPB is accredited by Colombia's Ministry of Education and ranks highly in national evaluations. This legacy influences job roles, prioritizing candidates who align with its commitment to integral human development.
UPB's faculties include Engineering, Health Sciences, Economic and Administrative Sciences, and Education Sciences. The Santander campus specializes in engineering and business, hiring for roles in mechanical engineering, industrial design, and administration.
Check university job types for details on lecturer jobs, professor jobs, and more.
To secure jobs at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, candidates need specific qualifications tailored to the role. Full-time professors typically hold a PhD (Doctorado) in the relevant discipline from an accredited institution. For example, engineering faculty require a PhD in a specialized field like mechanical or computer engineering.
Research focus or expertise is crucial; UPB prioritizes candidates with experience in applied research, such as sustainable development or health innovation, aligning with Santander's industrial needs. Preferred experience includes 3-5 years of teaching, peer-reviewed publications (at least 5 in Scopus-indexed journals), and grant funding from Colciencias or international bodies.
Skills and competencies encompass strong communication, interdisciplinary collaboration, and proficiency in Spanish (English for international programs). Leadership in projects or community outreach is highly valued.
Adjunct Professor: Part-time faculty member teaching specific courses without full research obligations.
Postdoctoral Researcher: PhD holder conducting advanced research post-graduation, often on grant-funded projects.
Colciencias: Colombia's former science ministry (now MinCiencias), funding research grants for academics.
Scopus-indexed Journals: Peer-reviewed publications tracked by Elsevier's Scopus database, measuring research impact.
The application process for jobs at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana starts with online submission via their careers portal. Prepare a CV, cover letter, teaching philosophy statement, and research plan. For faculty roles, include three references.
Tip: Highlight Santander-specific experience, like contributions to Bucaramanga's tech hub. Use our free resume template for academics.
UPB actively promotes diversity through the 'UPB Diversa' program, offering scholarships for indigenous and Afro-Colombian students, and gender parity initiatives in STEM. The Santander campus hosts inclusion workshops and supports LGBTQ+ groups. In 2023, 25% of new hires were from underrepresented backgrounds, reflecting commitment to equity.
UPB fosters work-life balance with flexible schedules, parental leave (up to 18 weeks maternity), and wellness centers. The Bucaramanga campus features green spaces, gyms, and cultural events like theater festivals. Faculty enjoy professional development sabbaticals every 7 years and family days. Employees rate the environment highly for collaborative culture and proximity to Santander's natural attractions.
UPB invests in faculty development via international exchanges and MinCiencias grants. Research centers like the Engineering Innovation Lab offer funding up to COP 200 million per project. Advancement from lecturer to full professor occurs through tenure tracks based on publications and teaching evaluations.
In summary, jobs at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana provide rewarding opportunities in a vibrant academic setting. Explore more higher ed jobs, get career advice from higher ed career advice, browse university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. UPB's commitment to excellence makes it ideal for dedicated professionals.
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