This resource is designed to support all Duke Orthopaedic Surgery faculty—whether clinical, research, or educational—in navigating the academic appointment and promotion process. While the core principles apply across all tracks, some details may vary depending on your role. Our goal is to provide clear guidance, helpful tools, and a transparent pathway to help you grow professionally and achieve your academic goals.
Initial Appointment
The Department Chair determines your initial academic rank in consultation with the Orthopaedic APT Committee Chair. In some instances, administrative review may delay your formal appointment. During this time, you may begin your role under the title Instructor until the review is complete.
Commitment to Advancement
Duke University is committed to fostering the academic growth and development of its faculty. Advancement in academic rank is a key part of this commitment. Faculty members undergo formal promotion review every five years. Typically, progression to the next rank occurs within 4–6 years, contingent upon continued academic productivity and contributions.
Given the broad range of expertise and contributions within our department, many types of accomplishments can support your case for promotion. View the general guidelines and expectations for advancement.
Preparing for Promotion
Once you believe you meet the criteria for promotion, please get in touch with the administrator for the Orthopaedic APT Committee. The promotion preparation process includes the following required documents:
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Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) in Duke format
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Intellectual Development Statement (IDS): The IDS should present a thoughtful overview of your academic contributions, trajectory, and future goals. It must be no more than five pages in length, followed by the required tabular summary. The document should be single-spaced and formatted using a 12-point Times New Roman font.
After submission, the Orthopaedic APT Committee will review your application. If approved, the committee will request letters of reference from internal and/or external reviewers, depending on the promotion track. This review and reference process typically takes 6 to 12 months.
Promotion Tracks
There are two primary promotion tracks at Duke:
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Career Track – Designed for practicing clinicians
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Tenure Track – Designed for academic faculty
While there is some overlap between tracks, faculty may request to change tracks with approval from the Department Chair.
- The Medical Executive Committee reviews Career Track promotions following approval by the Orthopaedic APT Committee.
- The University APT Committee reviews Tenure Track promotions after departmental approval. Final approval requires a vote by the Duke University Board of Trustees.
Timeline and Expectations
Due to the involvement of multiple review bodies, the promotion process may take 12 to 18 months or longer, depending on the need for revisions. We encourage faculty to begin preparing early and to reach out for guidance throughout the process.
Questions?
Contact Cindy Sparrow.