Distinguished Professorships

The appointment of a faculty member to a Distinguished Professorship at the University of Pittsburgh constitutes the highest honor that the University can accord a member of the professorate. Eligibility criteria are established by the dean of the school in which the faculty member holds tenure. All recommendations are reviewed by a group of distinguished faculty appointed by the Provost, in consultation with the Senior Vice Chancellor for Health Sciences. Distinguished Professorships may be awarded by the Chancellor on the recommendation of the Provost in consultation with the Senior Vice Chancellor for Health Sciences.

General Criteria and Definitions

The excerpt from the University of Pittsburgh Bylaws in this section of the Handbook defines each faculty rank. The following are additional criteria, demanding accomplishments and contributions beyond the authoritative knowledge, stature and service expected of a full professor in any school.

University Professor

Designation as a University Professor recognizes eminence in several fields of study, transcending accomplishments in and contributions to a single discipline. National and, where appropriate, international recognition in at least one field is required. These individuals are also expected to contribute to the intellectual advancement of their home departments and schools, to other departments and schools, and to the institution as a whole.

Distinguished Professor

Designation as Distinguished Professor recognizes extraordinary, internationally-recognized, scholarly attainment in an individual discipline or field. These individuals are expected to make special contributions to the intellectual advancement of their home departments and schools, as well as to the institution as a whole.

Distinguished Service Professor

Designation as a Distinguished Service Professor recognizes distinctive contributions and outstanding service to the University community in support of its multi-faceted teaching/research/service mission, as well as performance excellence in the faculty member's department or school, and national stature in his or her discipline or field.

Endowed Chair

Designation as an Endowed Chair recognizes eminence in a field of study that reflects outstanding contributions to a discipline. National and, where appropriate, international recognition in a field is expected. The availability of such positions is dependent upon external support.

Review the Policy and Procedure Governing Appointments to Distinguished Professorships.