Service Agreement for ShortTerm Engagement as Assistant Professor

This document outlines the essential elements of a service agreement between a university (the Institution) and an appointed adjunct or temporary faculty member (the Assistant Professor) for a limited period. The agreement is designed to protect the interests of both parties, clarify expectations, and ensure compliance with institutional policies and applicable law.

1. Parties & Effective Dates

Institution: [Name of University]
Assistant Professor: [Full Name]

Effective Date: The date the agreement is signed.
Term of Engagement: From [Start Date] to [End Date], unless terminated earlier per Section 9.

2. Position & Responsibilities

2.1 Title and Rank

The appointee will serve as Assistant Professor (Temporary/Adjunct) for the specified term.

2.2 Teaching Load

• Number of courses: [e.g., 2 courses per semester].
• Contact hours per week: [e.g., 6 hours].
• Preparation and grading time estimated at [e.g., 150 hours per course].

2.3 Academic Duties

• Prepare syllabi, lecture materials, and assessment tools.
• Maintain academic integrity and follow the Institutions evaluation policies.
• Participate in scheduled departmental meetings (typically no more than 2 per term).
• Provide timely feedback to students and maintain grade records.

3. Compensation & Benefits

3.1 Salary

A fixed remuneration of [Amount per course/semester] will be paid in equal installments according to the universitys payroll schedule.

3.2 Travel & Materials

Reimbursement for approved travel, conference registration, or teaching materials will be provided upon submission of itemized receipts in accordance with the Institutions financial policies.

3.3 Benefits

Shortterm faculty are generally not eligible for health, retirement, or leave benefits, except where mandated by law or collective bargaining agreements. Any exceptions will be noted in an addendum.

4. Work Schedule & Location

Teaching will occur at [Campus/Online]. Office hours, when required, shall be scheduled by mutual agreement and conducted in [Building/Room] or via the universitys virtual platform.

5. Intellectual Property & Confidentiality

5.1 IP Ownership

Works created in the course of teaching (lecture notes, assignments, exams) are the property of the Institution unless a written waiver is executed. Research output, if any, will be governed by the Institutions existing IP policy.

5.2 Confidential Information

The Assistant Professor must keep confidential all student records, proprietary data, and other nonpublic information obtained during the engagement.

6. Performance Evaluation

At the end of each term, teaching performance will be reviewed using standard university criteria (student evaluations, peer observation, adherence to syllabus). Results may affect renewal of future shortterm contracts.

7. Conflict of Interest

The Assistant Professor must disclose any external employment, consulting, or research that could interfere with the duties outlined in this agreement. Failure to disclose may result in termination.

8. Termination

8.1 By Institution

• For cause e.g., breach of policy, unsatisfactory performance, or violation of confidentiality.
• Without cause with at least 30 days written notice.

8.2 By Assistant Professor

Either party may terminate the agreement with 30 days written notice, provided all outstanding teaching obligations are satisfactorily completed or transferred.

9. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising under this agreement shall first be addressed through informal negotiation. If unresolved, the parties agree to seek mediation in accordance with the Institutions disputeresolution policy. Litigation shall be limited to the courts of the state where the Institution is located.

10. Governing Law

This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of [State], without regard to conflict of law principles.

11. Miscellaneous

• All amendments must be in writing and signed by both parties.
• The Assistant Professor shall comply with all applicable university policies, including those on sexual harassment, equity, and academic freedom.
• This agreement does not constitute tenure or a permanent appointment.

12. Signatures

By signing below, each party acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agree to the terms set forth in this Service Agreement.

_______________________________
For the Institution
Title: [Title]
Date: [Date]

_______________________________
Assistant Professor
Name: [Full Name]
Date: [Date]