The Professor Programme began in 2020, and since then around 60 participants have become professors. The leader of the programme is Professor Eivind Engebretsen from the University of Oslo.
“This is not just about numbers, but also about creating meaning in the professor role. As a professor, you are not only expected to conduct research but also to take responsibility and lead research,” says Engebretsen.
Some participants have already received funding from the BALANSE programme and FEMPROF, a project by the Research Council. Some have also received grants from UiA’s Action Plan for Equality, Inclusion, and Diversity. Academics from all faculties participate in the two-year programme, which combines seminars with work between sessions.
Systematic approach
“Many people want a systematic approach to becoming a professor, and that’s what we offer here. The requirements depend on the field you’re in, but there are systematic methods that anyone can use,” says Engebretsen.
A central part of applying for promotion is to demonstrate a coherent research trajectory. This programme focuses partly on developing a ‘red thread’, and a qualifying plan is developed that participants can follow for several years.
The Professor Programme was initially launched by the Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, but it has now been transferred to the Division of Human Resources. Senior Adviser Gerd Reidun Helmikstøl Senior Adviser Gerd Reidun Helmikstøl is among those closely involved in the programme.
“This is important for the development of UiA, but also for our recruitment efforts. Many are interested in a spot in the Professor Programme, and it’s great to see that it’s benefiting many,” says Helmikstøl.
More common in other sectors
Pro-Rector Hans Kjetil Lysgård is pleased that the Professor Programme has become so popular.
“In other sectors, there is a long tradition of pursuing career development in this way. That hasn’t been the case in academia. We are a young university that needs to develop, and the Professor Programme is a significant contribution to knowledge building at UiA,” says Lysgård.