MIT's 259 junior faculty members will be eligible for one-semester research leaves with pay under a new program that goes into effect July 1.
The leave program is designed to provide junior faculty a period of time to devote to scholarship, free from the requirements of teaching, committees and other obligations.
The tenure clock will not stop during the leave, nor will it affect the timing of sabbaticals if the junior faculty member is subsequently awarded tenure.
The leaves may take place during years two through six of the faculty member's probationary period. Candidates should consult with their mentors and apply for the leaves through their department heads. The application includes a proposal that outlines how the leave would be used. School deans and the provost must approve all applications.
During the 2000-01 academic year, only junior faculty in their fifth and sixth years on the tenure track will be eligible for these leaves. In 2001-02, the program will be open to faculty in years three through six. In the third and subsequent years, junior faculty in years two through six may apply.
A version of this article appeared in MIT Tech Talk on March 1, 2000.
