This role statement leads to the following expectations of a professor:
Research
Professors are crucial to the research effort of the University. They are expected to provide guidance and assistance to more junior staff in developing their capacity for teaching and research. Many professors will secure substantial grants which cover teams including junior staff while others will carry on research at lower cost and/or at a more individual level. In many disciplines, provision of an environment for honours and post-graduate students is dependent upon the ability of the professor to attract external funds.
Professors are expected to foster the research of other groups and individuals within the School, in the discipline and in related disciplines. They should introduce research students and colleagues to useful networks inside and outside the University.
Teaching
Teaching is central to the role of all academic staff. It is expected that a professor will seek continuing improvement in academic standards rather than merely maintaining them, and will make a distinguished contribution to teaching in the faculty and University. A professor should be expected to provide leadership in curriculum development, design of courses, and innovations in the delivery of teaching in the discipline.
Professors will carry a teaching load which reflects workload equity across all staff and be involved in at least some of the large classes and in teaching of both undergraduate (including first year) and postgraduate students.
Service
Professors should be role models in their relationships with students and with general staff at all levels. They should be accessible in the School and should take part in the community life of the University, including ceremonies where degrees are awarded to students of the school and to persons honoured by the University.
Professors are expected to participate in the appropriate national and international organisations of their discipline or profession. In most fields, such international involvement and standing should be clearly evident. It is expected that a professor will serve on expert committees, be willing to participate in reviews and to work at a national and international level.
Professors have a responsibility to advance the image of the University in the community locally, nationally and internationally. That image will be enhanced by excellent research and good teaching, the receipt of awards and participation in major conferences. Further involvement will include giving talks to community groups, visiting schools and taking a constructive and informed part in debate on matters of concern to the community.
Professors should be willing to contribute in policy formation and management of their school, their faculty and the University (through the Academic Board) where they have a contribution to make. They should also play a constructive role in appointment, confirmation and promotion processes for academic and general staff.
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