Emeritus or Emerita: At the discretion of the chancellor and upon the recommendation of the department head, dean, and provost, faculty members who are professors at the time of retirement may be awarded the rank of emeritus or emerita. In special cases of long and meritorious service, persons who have retired with the rank of associate professor or assistant professor may also be awarded the rank of emerita or emeritus.
Endowed chairs, professorships, and fellowships: The university has received endowments to fund chairs, professorships, and fellowships. Nominations for these positions are made on the basis of the terms set by the endowments. These positions may provide a salary supplement, additional research funds, secretarial support, graduate student funding, or release time to pursue research and/or creative projects.
Distinguished professor: This title may be awarded to a faculty member at the rank of professor who has displayed an exceptional record of teaching, research and/or creative activity, and service.
Distinguished scientist: Appointments as a distinguished scientist may be awarded to faculty who contribute significantly to nationally and internationally recognized research. Distinguished scientists are typically joint faculty with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
University distinguished research professor: This title may be awarded to faculty at the rank of professor for exceptional records in research.
University professor: This title may be awarded to faculty at the rank of professor in recognition of exceptional academic accomplishments.