Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), located in Quito, Pichincha province, Ecuador, is a premier private liberal arts university founded in 1988. Known for its rigorous academic standards and international outlook, USFQ attracts top talent for jobs in teaching, research, and administration. Nestled in the Andean capital at 2,850 meters above sea level, the university offers a dynamic environment for academic professionals seeking careers in higher education. With a focus on liberal arts, sciences, and interdisciplinary studies, jobs at USFQ span faculty positions, research roles, and support staff, making it a hub for those interested in university jobs in Latin America.
USFQ's campus in Cumbayá provides modern facilities, including labs for biodiversity research tied to the Galápagos Science Center. The university emphasizes innovation, with over 5,000 students and partnerships with institutions like Harvard and Oxford. Careers here appeal to those passionate about Ecuador's unique ecology and cultural heritage, offering opportunities to contribute to high-impact research while enjoying Quito's vibrant city life.
Established by a group of Ecuadorian visionaries inspired by U.S. liberal arts models, USFQ has grown into Ecuador's top-ranked private university per QS Latin America rankings. Its mission centers on holistic education, fostering critical thinking and global citizenship. This foundation shapes job opportunities, prioritizing candidates who align with values of excellence and sustainability. The university's evolution from a small institution to a research powerhouse, with institutes like the Galápagos Institute, creates diverse roles in academia.
Over 35 years, USFQ has expanded programs in biology, business, law, and arts, driving demand for specialized faculty. Historical milestones include launching Ecuador's first environmental science PhD and international exchange programs, influencing hiring for globally minded professionals.
USFQ offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across colleges of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Engineering, and Business. Departments frequently hire for biology (biodiversity focus), environmental management, and international relations. Jobs at Universidad San Francisco de Quito often involve teaching small classes and conducting field research in Ecuador's hotspots like the Galápagos.
For details on position types, visit university job types.
To secure jobs at USFQ, candidates need strong academic credentials tailored to Ecuador's higher education standards. Faculty positions typically require a PhD from an accredited university in the relevant field, such as a Doctorate in Biological Sciences for research roles. Master's degrees suffice for lecturers, but USFQ prefers candidates with degrees from top global institutions.
In Ecuador, the National Council for Higher Education (CONESUP) regulates qualifications, ensuring PhD holders have defended theses publicly. Bilingualism (Spanish/English) is mandatory, as USFQ's curriculum is trilingual in some programs. Postdocs need proven publications, while administrative roles may require advanced degrees in education or management.
USFQ's research emphasizes Ecuador's biodiversity, climate change, and neuroscience. Expertise in Andean ecology, Galápagos conservation, or sustainable development is highly sought. Faculty jobs involve leading projects funded by SENESCYT or international grants like NSF equivalents. The university's 10 research centers, including the Galápagos Institute, prioritize interdisciplinary work, requiring skills in grant writing and fieldwork.
Current focuses include genomic studies of endemic species and environmental policy, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals. Researchers collaborate with global partners, making experience in international consortia valuable for USFQ careers.
USFQ seeks candidates with 3-5 years of teaching or research experience, peer-reviewed publications (aim for 5+ for tenure-track), and grant success. Experience in Latin American higher ed or field research in tropical ecosystems is preferred. For admin roles, prior university management in student affairs or HR is key.
International exposure, such as postdocs abroad or collaborations with U.S./European universities, boosts applications. USFQ values community engagement, like outreach in Quito's underserved areas.
Essential skills include advanced research methods, pedagogical innovation, and Spanish fluency. Competencies like leadership in interdisciplinary teams, data analysis (R/Python for sciences), and cultural adaptability to Ecuador's diverse society are critical. Soft skills: resilience to Quito's altitude, collaboration, and mentorship.
The application process starts on USFQ's portal (usfq.edu.ec/carreras) or email to rrhh@usfq.edu.ec. Submit CV, cover letter, publications list, and references. Interviews are virtual then in-person in Quito, often including teaching demos.
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USFQ champions diversity through the Office of Equity, offering scholarships for indigenous and low-income students (20% of enrollment). Initiatives include gender parity in hiring (45% female faculty), LGBTQ+ ally programs, and accessibility for disabilities. Partnerships with Fulbright support international diverse hires, reflecting Quito's multicultural fabric.
Recent efforts: Women in STEM mentorship and Afro-Ecuadorian research inclusion, fostering an inclusive workplace.
USFQ promotes balance with 40-hour weeks, sabbaticals every 7 years, and parental leave (12 weeks). Campus perks: gym, counseling, subsidized cafeteria. Quito's location offers hiking in nearby volcanoes, cultural festivals, and affordable living ($1,500/month for expats).
Challenges: Altitude adjustment (headaches common first weeks). Community events like academic fairs enhance life. Remote work hybrid for researchers.
Competitive salaries: Assistant professors ~$3,000 USD/month, full ~$5,500, plus housing allowance, health insurance, and 13th/14th paychecks (Ecuador norm). Research grants up to $50,000/year. Relocation support for internationals.
Professional development: Conference funding, tenure track with promotion paths. Check university salaries for benchmarks.
USFQ stands out for its research impact, beautiful campus, and Ecuador's natural wonders. Contribute to conservation while advancing your career. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, and post a job on AcademicJobs.com.
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