Key skills:
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.
Research 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.
Read Case StudyThe earlier you can get to grips with the landscape and requirements of STEM careers, the better.
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