professors, page-15

I remember that Bond Uni was not happy with Clive Palmer's misuse of the title, so I looked it up. This is their comment:




"This is not an issue that that we have had to deal with in the past.

"We need to distinguish between honorary professors, adjunct professors and academic professors - the latter is a workplace classification given to academic staff employed by a university. An honorary professorship is typically awarded to academics from other institutions who have made an outstanding contribution to their discipline, and through their colleagues have supported the academic work of the awarding institution.

"While an adjunct professor is also honorary, it is typically given to individuals on the basis of recognition among peers of their distinction and achievement in academia, business, professional or cultural communities, or the public sector."

According to Bond University, when Mr Palmer was appointed as an adjunct professor in June 2008 he was advised, in writing, the rules authorising the title being published. These "conditions of use" are standard to all adjunct professorships.

One of the conditions was the use of the word "professor"; at all times, it needed to be preceded by "adjunct", a tell-tale clue to the status of the bearer.

Mr Palmer has dropped "adjunct" from correspondence, conference papers, brochures, publications and curriculum vitae. Another is that the use of the title "is normally reserved by the holder to matters and events of university relevance".

Bond University, which has begun a review of its policy on adjunct policy titles, appears uncertain about a remedy.

"It is an unusual occurrence for this to happen," Ms Fellowes said.

"In the first instance, we would inform the individual of the misrepresentation and remind them of correct use."

While Mr Palmer has never made any financial gift to Bond University, Ms Fellowes said he had shared his business expertise. Mr Palmer, who is running federal election candidates in every seat under his Palmer United Party, said last night in a tex message: "Your (sic) a liar for hirer (sic). I am a professor. U got academia envy. Take a cold shower."

Mr Palmer attended the University of Queensland in the 1970s, however, he did not complete his degree.