Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
research professor
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"research professor" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a professor who conducts research, usually in an academic setting. For example, "The research professor published a paper on the effects of global warming."
✓ Grammatically correct
Academia
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
28 human-written examples
He's now a research professor there.
News & Media
He also received two Miller research professor awards at Berkeley.
News & Media
Diane Ravitch, research professor of education at New York University.
News & Media
P.H. is Senior Research Professor of the Hertie Foundation.
Science & Research
In his worldwide research, Professor Apter often captured on film the subjects he interviewed.
News & Media
He was also a visiting research professor at Cooper Union in Manhattan.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
30 human-written examples
Professor Nicholas Edward Day, MRC Research Professor.
News & Media
Research Professor and director, Centre for Child and Family Research.
News & Media
HOSKINS, BRIAN JOHN; professor of meteorology and Royal Society Research Professor, Reading University (U.K).
Science & Research
Ravitch is Research Professor of Education at New York University and a historian of education.
News & Media
Research Professor of Biochemistry at Sheffied University.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "research professor" when specifically referring to a professor whose primary role involves conducting research, as opposed to teaching.
Common error
Avoid using "research professor" as a generic term for all professors. It should be reserved for those who actively engage in research as a significant part of their job description.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "research professor" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific type of academic position. It combines the noun "professor" with the adjective "research" to specify the primary focus of the individual's role. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is commonly used and understood in academic and professional contexts.
Frequent in
Science
34%
Academia
30%
News & Media
26%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
10%
Wiki
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "research professor" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that specifically identifies a professor whose primary role involves conducting research. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is appropriate in formal, academic, and scientific contexts to distinguish these professors from those primarily focused on teaching or administrative duties. While alternatives like "professor of research" or "faculty researcher" exist, "research professor" is direct and widely understood, with its prominence reflected in sources such as The New York Times and scientific journals. Using this term accurately helps to precisely convey the individual's responsibilities and contributions within the academic and scientific communities.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Professor of research
Reorders the words, emphasizing the research aspect of the professorship.
Faculty researcher
Uses 'faculty' instead of 'professor', focusing on the research role.
Senior research fellow
Employs a different title structure, highlighting the research expertise.
University scientist
Replaces 'professor' with 'scientist', broadening the scope.
Investigating professor
Uses 'investigating' instead of 'research', focusing on the act of inquiry.
Academic researcher
Replaces 'professor' with 'researcher' and adds 'academic', specifying the environment.
Principal investigator at a university
Provides a more detailed description of the role and setting.
Lead scientist in academia
Emphasizes the leadership role in research within academia.
Distinguished research professor
Adds an adjective to denote a high level of achievement.
Professor specializing in research
Clarifies the professor's specific area of focus.
FAQs
What does the term "research professor" mean?
A "research professor" is a professor who primarily conducts research, often in addition to teaching. Their main focus is on advancing knowledge in their field through investigation and experimentation.
How does a "research professor" differ from a regular professor?
While both may teach, a "research professor" places a greater emphasis on research activities. A regular professor may focus more on teaching and administrative duties, while the "research professor" is more focused on conducting experiments and publishing papers.
What are some alternative titles for a "research professor"?
Depending on the specific context, you could use titles like "professor of research", "faculty researcher", or "senior research fellow".
When is it appropriate to use the term "research professor"?
Use "research professor" when you want to specifically highlight the research-oriented role of a professor. It's appropriate when discussing their research projects, publications, or contributions to their field.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested