12. Professional Development

Continuing Appointment System of FRIB-NSCL

12. Professional Development

12.1. The Laboratory encourages the professional development of its staff. CA staff members are encouraged to take advantage of special conferences, seminars, colloquia, and other short-term activities and programs that will enhance their job-related professional knowledge and skills. Attendance at programs held during scheduled work hours or at programs that would affect the operation of the work unit must be approved in advance by their line manager. Attendance at professional meetings and participation in programs that are held outside of the immediate area further require the approval of the Department Head to arrange for Travel Authorization and for possible reimbursement of expenses. As funds for financial assistance are limited, the extent of reimbursement will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

12.1.1. All CA staff members are eligible to enroll in formal courses on either a degree or non-degree basis, subject to the limitation that a staff member on a full-time appointment may carry no more than five credit hours at one time. In the case of job-related courses, flexible working schedules can be arranged with the Department Head in order to attend classes given during normal working hours. Requests for release time will be considered on a case-by-case basis and approved by the Director. Tuition expenses for job related courses may also be reimbursed by the Laboratory, subject to availability of funds and if recommended by the Department Head and approved by the Director in advance of registering for the course.

12.2. CA Staff members are eligible to apply for a temporary reassignment to scholarly duties that enhance the research activities and capabilities of both the individual staff member and the laboratory group research program. Reassignment to scholarly duties for professional development is not granted automatically but is intended for the mutual benefit of the University and the CA staff member. Reassignment will not be granted unless satisfactory arrangements are made in advance to:

carry on the Laboratory duties of the CA staff member
fulfill obligations to graduate students whose programs or theses are being directed by the CA staff member, and fulfill obligations to committee assignments
Specific dates for the reassignment must be specified in the request and are approved by the Director.

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