Academic Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of academia, the emphasis on academic professors has never been more significant.
As knowledge expands and evolves, so does the need for scholarly minds who can impart, cultivate, and uphold our educational foundations.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an academic professor?
Whether you are:
- An academic aspirant trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring committee member outlining the ideal candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the nuances of academia,
You’ve arrived at the right place.
Today, we present a customizable academic professor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or university websites.
Let’s delve into it right away.
Academic Professor Duties and Responsibilities
Academic Professors are responsible for educating students at the university level, conducting scholarly research within their area of expertise, and contributing to the advancement of their field.
They also play a significant role in the administration of their department and university.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Developing and delivering lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics within their area of expertise
- Creating, implementing, and evaluating course syllabi, assignments, and exams
- Mentoring students, providing academic advice and guidance
- Supervising student research projects and theses
- Conducting original scholarly research and publishing findings in academic journals and books
- Participating in departmental and university committees, contributing to the academic community
- Engaging in professional development activities, such as attending academic conferences
- Applying for research funding and grants
- Performing administrative tasks, such as student registration, program planning, and curriculum development
Academic Professor Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Academic Professor to join our esteemed faculty.
The successful candidate will be expected to conduct original research, publish findings in professional journals, and teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
The Academic Professor will be responsible for developing syllabi, instructing students, advising about academic programs, and maintaining high standards of academic excellence.
Responsibilities
- Conduct high-quality academic research in their field.
- Teach undergraduate and postgraduate students.
- Develop and design curriculum plans to foster student learning, stimulate class discussions, and ensure student engagement.
- Provide guidance and support to students, including advising on career paths and academic achievements.
- Participate in departmental meetings and contribute to the development of the academic program.
- Contribute to the university’s community outreach efforts.
- Perform administrative tasks as required.
- Engage in continuous professional development.
Qualifications
- A doctoral degree in the relevant field.
- Experience in teaching and academic research.
- Strong analytical and academic writing skills.
- Ability to engage students and foster a stimulating learning environment.
- Strong commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Health insurance
- Dental and vision insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
- Tuition discount for employees and their families
Additional Information
- Job Title: Academic Professor
- Work Environment: University campus
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair
- Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience, qualifications, and university’s budget.
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our university. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter, and your research portfolio to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Academic Professor Do?
Academic Professors are highly skilled and trained individuals who typically work in universities and colleges.
They are often experts in their chosen field of study and contribute to the academic community through research and publications.
Their primary responsibilities include developing and delivering lectures to students, designing and modifying curriculum in line with the latest advancements, and assessing students’ performance through examinations and coursework.
Professors also conduct research in their areas of expertise, publish their findings in academic journals, and present them at conferences.
This research contributes to the development of their field and supports their teaching.
In addition to teaching and research, professors are also responsible for advising and mentoring students, particularly those at the postgraduate level.
They guide students’ research projects, supervise their thesis work, and provide career guidance.
They often also take on administrative roles within their institutions, such as serving on academic committees, participating in faculty recruitment, and contributing to strategic planning.
Moreover, an Academic Professor constantly stays updated with the latest advancements in their field, engages in lifelong learning, and promotes critical thinking among students.
Academic Professor Qualifications and Skills
Academic Professors are expected to have a combination of educational qualifications, technical skills, interpersonal skills, and professional experience such as:
- PhD in a relevant field, demonstrating in-depth knowledge and expertise.
- Experience in teaching at the college or university level, providing a strong grasp on effective teaching methodologies and techniques.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for conveying complex concepts and theories to students.
- Research skills, with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals, showing their ability to contribute to the knowledge in their field.
- Interpersonal skills for mentoring and advising students, as well as working collaboratively with fellow faculty members and administrators.
- Organizational skills to manage class schedules, grade assignments, and balance teaching with research and administrative responsibilities.
- Problem-solving skills to address any academic issues that arise and find effective solutions.
- Continual learning and adaptation to keep up with advancements in their field and integrate them into their teaching and research.
Academic Professor Experience Requirements
The path to becoming an academic professor typically begins with obtaining a bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree in the relevant field.
However, the most essential requirement for this role is a doctorate degree.
Before achieving the title of a professor, an individual often begins in a postdoctoral researcher or lecturer role, where they gain significant experience in research and teaching.
This period, which typically lasts 2 to 3 years, provides the necessary experience to move on to more advanced academic roles.
Faculty or teaching roles at universities or colleges, such as Assistant Professor or Associate Professor, are often the stepping stones to a full professorship.
These roles provide the opportunity to gain experience in delivering lectures, designing courses, advising students, and carrying out research projects.
In general, it takes about 5 to 7 years of experience in these roles before an individual is considered for a full professorship.
A professor is expected to have an extensive record of original research, publications in academic journals, and experience in developing and delivering courses, among other responsibilities.
Furthermore, for a professor role, expertise in the specific academic discipline is crucial.
This includes keeping up-to-date with the latest research, participating in academic conferences, and contributing to the body of knowledge within the field through their own original research.
In some cases, universities may seek professors with administrative experience, as these roles often carry departmental responsibilities or require leading a research team.
Therefore, experience in academic leadership roles can be beneficial.
To sum up, becoming an Academic Professor requires several years of study, research, teaching, and in some cases, administrative experience.
The process is lengthy but ensures that professors are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to educate the next generation.
Academic Professor Education and Training Requirements
Academic Professors typically have a doctoral degree in their respective field of study.
The pathway to this role often starts with a bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree in the same or related field.
A PhD or other terminal degree is then required, which involves several years of research and the completion of a thesis or dissertation.
In addition to their degrees, aspiring professors often gain experience through teaching assistantships during their graduate studies.
This helps them acquire necessary teaching skills and familiarity with the academic environment.
Many universities and colleges expect professors to have a record of published research.
Thus, involvement in research projects, presenting at academic conferences, and getting articles published in scholarly journals are often vital parts of their training.
Some institutions may require professors to complete a teaching certification program or workshops in pedagogy and instruction.
Continual learning is also critical in academia, as professors are expected to stay current in their field, adapt to new teaching methodologies, and participate in ongoing professional development.
In some specialized fields, such as business or law, universities may prefer or require professors to have relevant work experience in addition to their academic credentials.
Academic Professor Salary Expectations
The average salary for an Academic Professor is $79,540 (USD) per year.
However, the salary can fluctuate based on factors such as the field of study, level of education, years of experience, and the location of the institution.
Some top universities and senior-level professors can earn considerably more.
Academic Professor Job Description FAQs
What qualifications does an Academic Professor need?
Academic Professors typically need a Ph.D. in the field they intend to teach.
This requires a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and then completion of a doctoral program.
In addition to their educational qualifications, professors also need several years of experience in their field, often gained through research or working in a professional capacity.
What does a typical day look like for an Academic Professor?
A typical day for an Academic Professor can involve a mix of activities such as teaching classes, preparing lectures, grading papers, and conducting research.
They may also attend faculty meetings, advise students on academic matters, and serve on academic or administrative committees that review and recommend policies.
What skills are important for an Academic Professor?
Effective communication is crucial, as professors must be able to convey complex concepts clearly to their students.
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are also essential as professors have to develop and revise curricula and also engage in high-level research.
Lastly, interpersonal skills are important for building relationships with students, colleagues, and other professionals in their field.
What should you look for in an Academic Professor’s resume?
An Academic Professor’s resume should showcase their educational background, research experience, publications, grants, and awards.
It should also highlight any relevant teaching experience, including student mentoring or curriculum development.
Membership in professional associations and participation in academic conferences can also be a plus.
What qualities make a good Academic Professor?
A good Academic Professor is passionate about their subject and is able to inspire students.
They should be organized, patient, and able to communicate complex ideas in a way that students can understand.
Dedication to research and a commitment to staying updated in their field is also crucial.
They should also be empathetic and understanding, able to support students through their academic journey.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve delved into the rich tapestry of what being an academic professor truly entails.
Surprised?
It’s not just about lecturing in classrooms.
It’s about cultivating minds, one lesson at a time.
With our comprehensive academic professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step onto the academic stage.
But why limit yourself?
Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to create meticulous job listings or honing your resume to the epitome of excellence.
Remember:
Every lecture, every lesson, is a part of the grand scheme of education.
Let’s shape the future of education. Together.
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