Though the primary responsibility of a chemistry professor is to teach chemistry, the job may entail much more. Many professors not only teach but also conduct research in their fields of expertise. Some chemistry professors will also assist in the administration of the department, serve as a liaison to the rest of the university, and participate in other college activities.
A number of factors, including experience, type of college, and interest, can influence the level at which a chemistry professor teaches. Those who are just starting out in their teaching careers may begin by teaching basic chemistry classes to freshmen and sophomores at a junior college. Probationary or assistant professors are terms used to describe these professors. Many jobs are awarded on the basis of interest and seniority, so those who gain experience and respect within the field may be offered tenure.
A chemistry professor frequently creates lesson plans that include not only lectures and homework, but also labs and demonstrations in order to teach more effectively. The chemistry professor creates tests based on the information presented in class and the information presented in the directed readings to ensure that the students are properly learning the material. Tutoring or other special services may be recommended for any student who does not meet a certain standard.
A chemistry professor typically spends 40 to 50 percent of his or her time in the classroom teaching. While this may give the impression that professors have a lot of free time, their other responsibilities keep them very busy. The remainder of the time is spent creating lesson plans, holding office hours, grading papers, and performing other tasks.
While teaching is an important part of the job, it isn’t the only responsibility a chemistry professor has at a college or university. Eventually, the professor may be asked to join a board that governs a school’s chemistry department or college of science. The professor is in charge of overseeing budgets, making projections, and ensuring that adequate supplies are kept on hand in this capacity.
A chemistry professor may also be working to get published in a variety of ways in addition to these responsibilities. Some may be researching chemical reactions and processes for publication in scientific journals or other publications. Others write chemistry textbooks for both college and high school students. This is frequently in addition to their regular teaching schedule.