Academic Career Pathways (Promotion to Grades 10-12)

The University of Cambridge is committed to providing a supportive environment to enable individuals to take ownership of their development and build a successful career at Cambridge.  The success of the University depends on the diversity of its staff and students. The University aims to be a leader in fostering equality and inclusion and nurturing a sense of belonging for all within our community. 

The purpose of the Academic Career Pathways (Promotion to Grades 10 to 12) (ACP 10-12) scheme is to recognise and reward outstanding contributions and celebrate academic achievement through promotion.  Those seeking promotion to Grades 6 to 9 should refer to the Academic Career Pathways (Promotion to Grades 6 to 9) (ACP 6-9) scheme.

ACP 10-12 is available to those on the Research and Teaching (R&T), Teaching and Scholarship (T&S) and Research (R) pathways. Depending on the applicant’s pathway, assessment is based on contributions in:

• R&T: research and research leadership, teaching and researcher development, and service to the University and to the academic community more broadly. 
• T&S: teaching and scholarship and service to the University and to the academic community more broadly.
• R: research and researcher development, and service to the University and to the academic community more broadly.

All applicants for promotion are expected to contribute to the creation of a positive working environment, and to adhere to the University’s Code of Behaviour. 

Research integrity is considered paramount in maintaining the University’s international standing and reputation; employees are therefore expected to maintain and uphold these principles at all times. 

The University of Cambridge is fully committed to securing and promoting freedom of speech within the law for staff, students and visiting speakers in all activities related to academic life.  Our Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech sets out the University’s values, approach and associated procedures in detail.  All the University’s policies and procedures are to be interpreted and applied in a manner consistent with the Code of Practice; in the case of any perceived conflict, the provisions of the Code of Practice will take precedence insofar as that is lawful and reasonably practicable. 

All those who are involved in the ACP 10-12 scheme, either as an applicant, Head of Institution, committee member, Chair or Secretary, or in another supporting role, are expected to read and be familiar with this guidance.

Any general enquiries about the scheme/process should be directed to the HR Reward Team at acp@admin.cam.ac.uk.

A PDF version of the scheme guidance can be found here: