Wide variations exist in funding patterns within physics. In general, the Department expects its faculty members to pursue and obtain external funding in a manner consistent with national norms for their particular specialties. All activity that reflects on the professional competence and reputation of the faculty member contributes to defining distinction in research. The primary criterion for judging excellence will be external recognition by the faculty member's peer group. Service is participation in the various functions and tasks necessary for the operation of the Department, College, and University as a whole.
Extension comprises service activity benefiting the people of the State of North Carolina.
Assistant professors should not carry out service activities at the expense of research. But the tenured faculty will recognize the importance of this work and will participate whenever they can usefully contribute. The initial appointment at the assistant professor level is for four years. During the course of the third year the candidate will be considered for a renewal appointment at the assistant professor level. Effectiveness will be judged from student evaluations, and from in class observation by a member of the senior faculty, chosen by mutual agreement between the candidate and the Department Head.