In the Netherlands, the Higher Education and Research Act identifies two types of professors: full professors and professors by special appointment. The University of Amsterdam has an additional category, University Professors, reserved for leading professors within or outside of the University who have demonstrated excellence in research, teaching and social impact.
Recent appointments
New professorial appointments at the University of Amsterdam are guided by the University’s Professorial Appointments Policy. A basic premise is that professors have responsibility for both teaching and research and must demonstrate quality in both areas. Each year, approximately 50 professors are appointed at the University of Amsterdam.
University Professors
University Professors are specially appointed by the Executive Board for a period of five years. The appointment is reserved for leading professors from within the University or outside it who have demonstrated excellence in research, teaching and social impact. Besides their faculty-specific assignment, University Professors have a University-wide remit which they can shape as they see fit.
University Professors are expected to be a source of renewal at the University and an inspiration to students, researchers and lecturers. They are tasked with fostering interdisciplinarity and new avenues for research and teaching. They are also expected to play a role in stimulating debate within the University and increasing the University’s visibility within wider society.
The Album Academicum names every professor since 1632 who has worked at the University of Amsterdam or at its predecessor, the Athenaeum Illustre. The database provides personal details and information about the professor’s academic background and position. It provides insight into the University’s development: its growth and stagnation, the development and popularity of different subject areas and the role of women in research.