lecturer

A lecturer is an academic appointment at a college or university, primarily responsible for delivering teaching and may engage in research and student supervision. The term's meaning varies by country: in many Commonwealth nations, lecturer is an entry- to mid-career academic rank below senior ranks such as senior lecturer, reader, or professor; in other systems, particularly the United States, lecturer denotes a non-tenure-track teaching position, sometimes with fixed-term contracts or part-time status. The precise duties and status can differ between institutions.

Core duties include preparing and delivering lectures, seminars, and tutorials; designing courses and curricula; assessing and providing feedback on student work; supervising undergraduate and postgraduate research projects; advising students; participating in department, college, or faculty committees; and sometimes contributing to research and scholarly output, depending on contract and career stage. Some lecturers may supervise teaching assistants or lead labs and practical sessions.

Education and career trajectory also vary. Most positions require at least a master's degree, with many institutions requiring or preferring a PhD or other terminal degree for permanent academic posts; professional experience in relevant fields may suffice in some contexts. Progression commonly follows a ladder from lecturer to senior lecturer or associate professor and, in many systems, to professor, though non-tenure-track lecturer roles may be capped or fixed-term. The role is essential for delivering higher education and supporting learning, assessment, and curriculum development.