An assistant professor is an academic rank just below the rank of an associate professor. This position is generally taken after earning a doctoral degree and sometimes after holding one or more postdoctoral researcher positions. Assistant professors are entry-level positions that may or may not become tenure-trackers or tenured, while associate professors usually are mid-level tenured positions. Assistant professors typically have higher teaching loads than associate professors.
Assistant professors are integral members of the faculty who have demonstrated expertise in their field and made significant contributions to research and teaching. They play a crucial role within the university system. The initial appointment of an assistant professor is usually for a period of five years, while an associate professorship is a tenure-track appointment held by individuals who have demonstrated sufficient promise and achievement to potentially qualify for tenure within three to five years.
In summary, the key distinctions between an assistant professor and an associate professor lie in their academic ranks, tenure prospects, teaching loads, and career progression within the university system.
- Assistant professor Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster
- Assistant professor – Wikipedia
- Academic ranks in the United States – Wikipedia
- In terms of academic hierarchy, what distinguishes an Assistant Professor from an Associate Professor?
- What are the key differences in roles and responsibilities between Assistant and Associate Professors?
- How do Assistant Professors and Associate Professors differ in terms of teaching loads?