Professor

A professor is a senior academic title held by a university teacher and researcher. Its rank, duties, and path of appointment vary across countries and institutions.

Academic rank: A formal level in an academic career structure, often linked to appointment, responsibilities, and pay. Professorship is commonly the highest or one of the highest academic ranks.
Lecturer: An academic title commonly associated with university teaching, with rank and duties varying by country. In many systems, lecturers occupy a different rank from professors.
University teaching: Instruction conducted at universities and other higher-education institutions. Teaching courses and mentoring students are common parts of professorial work.
Medieval university: A European institution of higher learning that developed in the Middle Ages, often organized around recognized faculties. The professorial title developed from medieval university teaching roles.
Tenure: A system of continuing academic appointment that limits dismissal to specified grounds and procedures. In some systems, professors hold tenure, while rank and job security remain distinct.
Adjunct professor: A professor appointed on a part-time or otherwise non-permanent basis, often with limited institutional duties. The title shares the word professor but usually signals a different employment arrangement.
Academic research: Systematic investigation conducted to produce and communicate new knowledge. Professors commonly lead or contribute to research programs.
Doctor (title): An honorific and academic title derived from the Latin word for teacher. Doctor and professor became distinct titles with different meanings and uses.
Academic tenure track: A probationary academic appointment that can lead to tenure after review. This is a common route to a professorship in North American universities.
Emeritus: An honorary status granted to a retired person who retains a former professional title. Professor emeritus denotes post-retirement recognition rather than an active appointment.

Linked from 5 pages