Research Professor

Pathway:
Research
Career Stage:
Late career
Salary:
£65,000 – 120,000+

Overview

Key skills:

  • A Higher Degree (PhD/DPhil/MD) with substantial postdoctoral research experience in a relevant specialist subject area
  • Passion for innovative and original research, and active contribution to the advancement of knowledge at a national and international level
  • Distinguished record of research with a reputation for international excellence
  • Able to attract and secure research grants and funding
  • Experience leading and managing research projects
  • Able to demonstrate excellent networking, collaboration and communication skills, including the ability to work successfully in an international setting.

Typical job titles: Research Professor, Professor, Full Professor, Chair

'Professor' is possibly the most well-known university job title, and the most senior role in the research pathway. The key part of the role is to lead research. A Research Professor must lead and maintain their own research activities and acquire external funding for new research. In almost all cases they will either lead a team, or different teams working on different research projects.

Being a successful research leader will enhance your reputation, will like increase your salary, as well as the prestige of the university where the position is based. Many Professors make a significant contribution to their subject field.

A Professor is also expected to take on managerial responsibilities, taking part in strategic planning and decision-making in their department.

Jo Shien Ng

Research Professor

Pathway:
Research
Career Stage:
Late career
Institution:
Sheffield University
Previous Job Title:
Associate Professor

Jo Shien Ng moved from Malaysia to the UK in 1997 to complete her degree in electronic engineering. She has risen through the ranks to become Professor of Semiconductor Devices at University of Sheffield despite, she says, self-doubt that nearly prevented her pursuing a research career.

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Next steps

The earlier you can get to grips with the landscape and requirements of STEM careers, the better.

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