Probation
The College is committed to developing and supporting staff to work effectively to meet the objectives of their roles. The College has policies, procedures and processes in place with the aim of supporting these goals. Newly appointed Lecturers (except Clinical Lecturers) are usually appointed a three-year probationary period. During the probationary period, lecturers are expected to carry out specific duties and developmental activities including developing appropriate teaching, research, clinical (where appropriate) skills to demonstrate their suitability for confirmation of appointment.
Educational Development Unit support
The Educational Development Unit (EDU) offers a broad spectrum provision that provides a needs-based and timely approach to the educational development of everyone who teaches Imperial students. We offer training based on your own experience and a range of workshops to help you develop your skills.
The Academic's Success Guide
In this resource, we have put together a collection of materials designed to support you in the various elements of establishing your career as a newly appointed lecturer and leading your first research group. It is based on what we know others before you have found challenging and helpful. It is designed to be a first port of call to provide you with learning, advice and guidance tailored to your context, as well as linking directly to relevant information, services and support that the College provides.
Academic Adviser
Newly appointed Lecturers/Senior lecturers are assigned an Academic Adviser upon appointment in the College. It is the responsibility of the Head of Department to assign the Academic Advisor. It is vital you form a relationship with your Academic Advisor as early as possible, following the start of your appointment. An Academic Advisor will have an important role to play in your probation period. They are a “friendly ear” whom you meet with regularly, who you can raise any questions and discuss any issue.
Academic Advisers offer guidance and advice on good teaching practice, curriculum development, preparation of research applications, management of research projects, extent of clinical duties (where appropriate) and provide information on systems and procedures. Your Academic Adviser will not have managerial responsibilities for you, but they will usually be a senior member of the academic staff in your Department and may be from another Department if this is considered more appropriate.