Public Health Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of increasing health challenges, the role of public health professors has never been more crucial.

As global health issues continue to evolve, the demand for knowledgeable minds who can educate, research, and implement public health strategies escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a public health professor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of public health academia,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable public health professor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or academic career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Public Health Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Professors are responsible for educating students on various aspects of public health such as epidemiology, biostatistics, health services, environmental health, community health, and behavioural health.

They also conduct research and contribute to the body of knowledge in their field.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Develop and deliver lectures on public health topics to undergraduate and graduate students
• Prepare and implement lesson plans, including readings, assignments, and tests
• Guide students in their research projects, theses, and dissertations
• Stay up-to-date with recent developments in public health to ensure curriculum relevance
• Conduct original research in public health, publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, and present at professional conferences
• Participate in departmental and university committee service
• Advise students on their academic and career paths
• Contribute to the development of curriculum and teaching resources for the department
• Participate in public health advocacy and community outreach programs

 

Public Health Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a knowledgeable and dedicated Public Health Professor to join our faculty.

The Public Health Professor’s responsibilities include teaching undergraduate and graduate-level courses in public health, conducting groundbreaking research in this field, and contributing to the development of public health curriculum.

The ideal candidate has a rich background in public health, possesses excellent communication skills, and has a passion for educating the next generation of public health practitioners.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare and deliver high-quality lectures in the field of public health.
• Conduct and publish original research in peer-reviewed academic journals.
• Mentor and supervise students’ research projects and theses.
• Contribute to the development and revision of public health curriculum.
• Participate in departmental meetings, university events, and faculty training.
• Stay current with latest developments in the field of public health and incorporate them into the curriculum.
• Engage in professional networking and continuous professional development activities.

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Public Health or related field.
• Proven experience as a professor or lecturer in public health.
• Strong record of research and publication in reputable academic journals.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and organization skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity and experience with promoting inclusive excellence is required.
• Ability to mentor students and provide guidance on academic and career matters.

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary package
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid sabbatical leave
• Tuition assistance for dependents
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Professor
• Work Environment: University campus
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Department
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience, qualifications, and university pay scales.
• 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 institution. 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 CV, cover letter, teaching philosophy, and evidence of teaching effectiveness to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Public Health Professor Do?

Public Health Professors typically work in universities, colleges, and other higher educational institutions.

They may also serve in research institutions or governmental health agencies.

Their job mainly involves teaching courses in public health to undergraduate and postgraduate students.

These courses may cover a broad range of topics, including epidemiology, biostatistics, health services administration, health policy, and community health.

Public Health Professors are also responsible for planning and delivering lectures, preparing and marking assignments and exams, and guiding student research projects.

They often mentor students, providing advice on academic matters, career paths, and research opportunities.

In addition to teaching, they often conduct research in their area of expertise, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in public health.

They also publish their research findings in academic journals, present their work at conferences, and apply for research grants.

Furthermore, they participate in faculty meetings, serve on committees, and take part in other administrative tasks.

They may also collaborate with public health professionals and community organizations to address public health issues.

 

Public Health Professor Qualifications and Skills

A Public Health Professor should possess the qualifications and skills that align with the academic and professional requirements of the role, such as:

• Strong foundation in public health principles, theories and practices, with particular expertise in their area of specialization.
• Ability to develop and deliver engaging, informative and comprehensive lectures to students, using effective communication and presentation skills.
• Excellent research abilities to stay updated on the latest developments, trends and challenges in public health, and integrate this knowledge into the curriculum.
• Experience in designing course syllabi and curriculum that meet learning objectives and align with the standards of the university and public health education.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with students, colleagues and other stakeholders, providing academic guidance and mentorship to students.
• A Ph.D. or other advanced degree in public health or a related field, with substantial professional experience in public health.
• Proven track record of published research in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating the ability to contribute to the body of knowledge in the field.
• Ability to promote and uphold academic integrity and professionalism, encouraging a culture of learning and mutual respect among students.

 

Public Health Professor Experience Requirements

Becoming a Public Health Professor often requires significant experience in the field of public health.

Many universities and institutions require a minimum of 3 to 5 years of professional experience.

This experience could be gained through roles such as a Public Health Specialist, Health Education Specialist, or a Public Health Analyst.

The candidate should also have experience in research or academia, often obtained through a doctoral program in public health or a closely related field.

This experience may include conducting independent research, publishing scholarly articles, presenting findings at academic conferences, or teaching at the university level.

In addition to this, some institutions may prefer candidates with postdoctoral experience and a proven record of securing research funding.

Candidates with more than 7-10 years of experience often have extensive knowledge in their specialized area of public health and may have previously held leadership or managerial roles, making them well-suited for a professor position.

Additionally, professors need to have good communication skills as they will be teaching and mentoring students, advising on academic matters, and participating in departmental and university service.

 

Public Health Professor Education and Training Requirements

Public Health Professors typically require a Doctoral degree in Public Health or a closely related field.

They must have a deep understanding of public health principles, epidemiology, biostatistics, health services, and environmental health sciences.

Prior work experience in public health settings, such as hospitals, governmental health agencies, non-profit organizations, or community health centers, is highly beneficial.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, they must have practical skills in research methods, grant writing, and data analysis.

Teaching experience, either as a teaching assistant or lecturer, is often required for professorship roles.

Public Health Professors must continue their education and training throughout their careers to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and research in the field.

They may also need to be certified by a recognized body, such as the National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE), which certifies public health professionals’ knowledge and skills.

Finally, they must be excellent communicators and have strong leadership skills to effectively teach and guide students.

 

Public Health Professor Salary Expectations

A Public Health Professor earns an average salary of $104,300 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can vary significantly depending on factors such as tenure, the type of academic institution, geographical location, and the individual’s level of experience and expertise in the field.

 

Public Health Professor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Public Health Professor need?

Public Health Professors should have strong communication and presentation skills to effectively teach and mentor students.

They should also have strong research skills to contribute to the field of public health and stay updated on the latest developments.

Having an understanding of public health issues, policies, and procedures is critical.

Professors also need to have good organizational skills for preparing lectures, grading papers, and managing their time effectively.

 

Do Public Health Professors need a degree?

Yes, Public Health Professors must hold a doctoral degree in public health or a related field.

Additionally, they need experience in teaching and research.

Some universities may require professors to have post-doctoral research or practical experience in public health.

 

What should you look for in a Public Health Professor’s resume?

Look for a doctoral degree in public health or a closely related field, as well as experience in teaching and research.

Additional qualifications, such as published articles in reputable journals, participation in public health projects, and professional memberships can be a plus.

Also, check for any courses or seminars they have led, as well as any accolades or awards they’ve received.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Professor?

A good Public Health Professor is deeply knowledgeable about public health issues, policies, and research methods.

They should be an effective communicator, capable of conveying complex concepts in a way that students can understand and apply.

They should also be patient, approachable, and supportive to encourage student engagement.

A commitment to staying updated on current public health issues and research is also crucial.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Public Health Professor?

Hiring a qualified Public Health Professor can be challenging because the role requires a unique combination of academic expertise, research skills, and teaching ability.

To attract top candidates, offer competitive salaries, opportunities for research and publication, and a supportive, collaborative academic environment.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we have unveiled the true essence of being a public health professor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about teaching health concepts.

It’s about molding the future of public health, one lecture at a time.

With our ready-to-use public health professor job description template and real-life examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously crafted listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every lecture you deliver is part of the broader health narrative.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Public Health Professor (Complete Guide)

Revamp Your Career: Fun Jobs That Are Also Financially Rewarding

The Path to Prosperity: Unveiling This Year’s Top Earning Jobs!

Career Serenity: Jobs That Let You Breathe Easy

Maximize Your Earnings from Home: Remote Jobs with Great Pay!