R&D Professor

The title of the professorship is likely to vary according to institution. A Professor (in this example we are referring to a paramedic research professor) is a senior academic paramedic with extensive experience in leading and advancing relevant research within paramedicine. This role is pivotal in shaping the profession through original research, innovation, and strategic development, ensuring that findings directly inform and enhance paramedic practice and healthcare delivery through knowledge translation.

While it is expected that they have, as a minimum, a doctoral level qualification and are engaged in postdoctoral research, expertise in leading research programmes, securing funding, a strong portfolio of publications and outputs, and fostering collaboration between academia and healthcare providers is central to this role. They may also contribute to policy development, research capacity building, and the translation of evidence into practice, often working across universities, health and care organisations, and research institutions to drive innovation and impact.

Beyond their academic and research responsibilities, Professors often serve as strategic advisors to government bodies and national agencies, providing expert guidance on health and care policies and the development of the paramedic profession. In addition to their advisory roles, these professors are instrumental in mentoring and building research capacity within the paramedic community. They support colleagues by providing guidance and supervision, fostering the development of research skills and expertise among paramedics. This mentorship is crucial for building research capacity within the paramedic profession, as it helps develop talented researchers who can contribute to a research culture within the paramedic profession.