Distinguished Professor Policy

Intent

To specify the criteria for the granting of the title of James Cook University Distinguished Professor.

Scope

This policy applies to all nominations for the granting of the title of James Cook University Distinguished Professor to eligible candidates. This title may not be awarded to Adjunct appointments.

Definitions

James Cook University Distinguished Professor is a highly prestigious title which is accorded to eminent Professors of exceptional distinction who have made an exceptional contribution to their field or discipline.

Policy

Criteria for Appointment

Eligibility for appointment as a James Cook University Distinguished Professor will be considered with reference to some or all of the following criteria:

1. An international reputation for exceptional research and scholarship as exemplified by a demonstration of sustained high level achievement of scholarly publications, performances, creative works, citations, invitations to give keynote addresses, success in obtaining research grants, election to learned academics, honorary degrees, awards and prizes. Evidence that may be presented in support of this can include:
   • publication of books and monographs through publishing houses of high national/international reputation;
   • publication of the results of original research and other scholarly endeavours in refereed journals of high international repute;
   • publication of the results of original research and other scholarly endeavours in conference proceedings that are subject to peer review and published through publishing houses of high national/international reputation;
   • publication of reports commissioned by government agencies and international organizations;
   • successful application for patents and licences based on original research and development;
   • original designs and executed structures or instruments which result in high professional standing;
   • experience in leading successful research teams;
   • ability to attract funds from external peer adjudicated grants agencies;
   • demonstrated record of editorial leadership in the dissemination of knowledge;
   • ability to attract funds for contract research from government agencies, industry and commerce;
   • record of achievement in the transfer and application of the results of research and development to industry and commerce, the professions and wider community;
   • leadership in the generation of collaborative research and development programs with other institutions including universities, government agencies, industry and commerce;
   • publication of advanced textbooks in the candidate's field of expertise through publishing houses of high national/international repute; and
   • reports on high-level consultancies carried out for industrial and commercial firms.
2. Professional peer recognition of significant achievements at a state, national and international level exemplified by leadership of learned societies and exceptional contributions to continuing education and peer review. Evidence presented in support of this may include:
   • high category of membership of professional societies and associations;
   • leadership in professional societies and associations as demonstrated by the holding of executive office;
   • membership of nationally and internationally recognised honorific societies;
   • membership of government advisory bodies, committees of inquiry and boards of management;
   • membership of international delegations in the candidate's area of expertise;
   • invitations to serve as a referee or adjudicator by major national and competitive grant awarding or award-granting schemes or organizations;
   • invitations to serve as external examiner in other higher education institutions;
   • invitations to speak at major international conferences;
   • invitations to serve as visiting Professor in other higher education institutions or as visiting academic in government departments and agencies;
   • invitations to edit special issue journals, books;
   • opinion sought by other institutions for their research;
   • chair of a major (international) conference;
   • invitation to serve as external member on high level selection committees; and
   • appointment to an international journal editorial board.
3. Demonstrated evidence that the candidate has successfully guided the development of younger colleagues and postgraduate students through supervision, mentoring, monitoring and collaboration.
4. Demonstrated research team leadership - fostering the research of other groups and individuals in the college/department/institutes/centres and related disciplines as appropriate.
5. Involvement in, and contribution to, activities extending beyond the University, particularly those relating to the candidate's profession or discipline, which reflect favourably on the University; an ability to liaise and communicate effectively with members of the community, and where appropriate, professional and industry bodies in relation to research.

Terms of Appointment

Appointment:

James Cook University Distinguished Professors are appointed until their retirement or resignation from the University.

There is no limit on the number of James Cook University Distinguished Professorships which the University may appoint, but the number awarded will reflect the fact that this is a highly prestigious title.

Withdrawal:

The Vice Chancellor, at their sole discretion, may withdraw the title from any individual. Such withdrawal will be in writing and the reasons for withdrawal are not required. There is no appeal process to such a decision.

Related policy instruments

Distinguished Professor Procedure

Approval Details

Modification History