Answer:
In Malta, the appointment of a professorship in a Higher Education Institution (HEI) is governed by a combination of national regulations, institutional policies, and international academic standards. While specific guidelines can vary between institutions, the following are general criteria and procedures commonly observed:
1. Academic Qualifications
- Doctoral Degree: A Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in the relevant field is typically required.
- Postdoctoral Experience: Significant postdoctoral research experience is often expected.
2. Research and Publications
- Research Output: A strong record of research publications in peer-reviewed journals, books, and conference proceedings.
- Impact: Evidence of the impact of research, such as citations, awards, and recognition within the academic community.
- Grants and Funding: Successful acquisition of research grants and funding from reputable sources.
3. Teaching Experience
- Teaching Record: Demonstrated excellence in teaching at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
- Curriculum Development: Experience in developing and updating academic curricula.
- Supervision: Experience in supervising doctoral and master's students.
4. Professional Service
- Academic Leadership: Roles such as department head, program director, or other leadership positions within the institution.
- Service to the Profession: Participation in academic committees, editorial boards, and professional organizations.
- Community Engagement: Contributions to the wider community, including public lectures, outreach activities, and consultancy.
5. International Experience
- Collaborations: Active participation in international research collaborations and networks.
- Mobility: Experience working or studying abroad can be advantageous.
6. Personal Attributes
- Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire colleagues and students.
- Communication Skills: Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Ethical Standards: Commitment to academic integrity and ethical research practices.
7. Application Process
- Call for Applications: Institutions typically issue a call for applications, detailing the specific requirements and criteria for the position.
- Submission of Documents: Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive application package, including a CV, cover letter, research statement, teaching statement, and references.
- Selection Committee: A selection committee, often comprising senior faculty members and external experts, reviews applications and conducts interviews.
- Evaluation: Candidates are evaluated based on their academic achievements, research potential, teaching effectiveness, and fit with the institution's strategic goals.
8. Regulatory Compliance
- National Regulations: Compliance with national regulations and standards set by the National Commission for Further and Higher Education (NCFHE) in Malta.
- Institutional Policies: Adherence to the specific policies and procedures of the hiring institution.
9. Appointment and Tenure
- Probationary Period: Some institutions may require a probationary period before granting tenure.
- Tenure Review: A comprehensive review process to assess the candidate's performance in research, teaching, and service before granting tenure.
10. Continuous Professional Development
- Ongoing Development: Commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with advancements in the field.
Conclusion
The appointment of a professorship in a Higher Education Institution in Malta is a rigorous process that seeks to ensure the highest standards of academic excellence. Candidates must demonstrate outstanding achievements in research, teaching, and professional service, and align with the strategic goals of the institution. Compliance with national and institutional regulations is essential throughout the process.