As the University’s international profile expands, the issue of recognising the job titles of its academic staff is one which is being considered to ensure that the titles are recognised and understood at an international level. It has been acknowledged that UK academic titles are not well understood outwith the UK and that this can lead to certain disadvantages for colleagues, particularly those located at the University’s overseas Campuses, and those engaging with institutions and partners worldwide.
In May 2012 the Court approved a recommendation from the Senate that the titles of Assistant Professor and Associate Professor be introduced for academic staff engaged in both teaching and research at the Malaysia Campus at Grade 7/8 (Lecturers) and Grade 9 (Senior Lecturers/Readers) respectively. This recommendation formed part of the development of the Campus in Malaysia, a country where such titles are commonly used.
The Senate has indicated its support for a review of titles for academic staff located at all of the University's Campuses, fostering cohesion across all locations and reflecting the University's international standing. There is support amongst staff at the Dubai Campus for the introduction of the new titles there. The Senate agreed that a full proposal should be presented for consideration in 2013, addressing points raised by the Senate during its earlier discussions.
A group established by the Senate Business Committee comprising the Vice-Principal, the Deans, the Head of Human Resources Services and the Head of Senate Services, has considered the points raised by the Senate and has agreed options to be presented to academic staff. The Group has devised a survey to give academic staff an opportunity to give their views. These views will be considered by the Senate as part of the review.
A full report on the Senate's review of academic titles is available here.
Academic staff are invited to complete the survey here.
The survey will close on Friday 15 March.
Many thanks for your contribution to this important exercise.
Professor Julian Jones
Vice-Principal