University of Virginia Library

Over the years, a confusing situation has developed in the use of academic titles in the
Department of Medicine. The word "clinical" is used in some titles and omitted in the titles of
others who have similar responsibilities and salary arrangements, residents have been listed in
the announcement as instructors without approval of the President or Board of Visitors, there has
been no designation for research workers on temporary appointments and paid from funds obtained
from outside sources.

With the approval of the Advisory Council of the Department of Medicine, may I submit
for your consideration the following recommendations:

1. The titles should be as follows

Professor

Associate Professor

Associate Clinical Professor

Assistant Professor

Assistant Clinical Professor

Instructor

Clinical Instructor

Research Associate

Research Assistant

Lecturer

Assistant

Fellow

2. The titles which include the designation "clinical" should be reserved for members
of the faculty who are in practice or associated with other institutions in Charlottesville and
devote only part of their time to work at the University Hospital and Department of Medicine.

3. The title "research associate" should designate those who have the qualifications for
academic rank of associate or full professor but are appointed on a temporary basis and paid from
funds obtained from outside sources.

4. The title "research assistant" should designate those who have the qualifications
for academic rank of instructor or assistant professor but are appointed on a temporary basis and
paid from funds obtained from outside sources.

5. The title "lecturer" should designate those who are associated with institutions
outside of Charlottesville, such as the Roanoke Veterans Hospital, but have regular teaching
assignments.

6. The title "assistant" should designate members of the resident staff who assist in
teaching.

7. The title "fellow" should designate those who have training fellowships financed by
funds from either the University or outside agencies.

Although there is not complete uniformity in academic titles at medical schools throughout
the country, the above recommendations are in keeping with the most common practice