UAB has developed a nine-rung ladder that comprises a clear career path for laboratory staff and investigators who do not have or seek academic appointments. It defines the possibilities for those who enjoy the daily work of research but are not inclined to teaching. For others, it will bridge the gulf between extended post-doctoral training and a scientific career they can call their own.
The new career ladder, which ranges from Researcher 1 to Scientist IV, delineates the combination of education and experience needed to work in research laboratories and advance through the non-faculty ranks and the compensation range for each stage.
“Providing this kind of clarity for our investigators will aid recruitment and retention of quality investigators who support UAB’s enterprise at all levels,” said Richard Marchase, Ph.D., vice president for Research and Economic Development.
“In a time when traditional academic jobs are more scarce than ever, UAB’s research career ladder also provides an alternative within academia for advancement for our employees and may help us secure and retain the talent needed to maximize our research potential in a highly competitive environment,” Marchase said. “Everyone wins.”
Research at UAB, for which total expenditures exceeded $510 million in 2015, is conducted in the departments of 10 schools, 24 university-wide research centers, UAB hospitals and clinics and field sites by faculty, fellows and students collaborating among themselves and with others around the globe.
Approximately 900 employees now hold titles that will transition to the new structure, according to UAB compensation data.
The qualifications listed are the minimum qualifications for employment at that rank. Promotion to a higher level will be based on merit as documented by outstanding performance evaluations and dependent on the availability of funds.
