​As NTU matures into a reputable university, the role of visiting academics and scientists has changed from that of networking to one that aims for committed partnership in research and educational programs. The University recognises that the endowed professorship scheme is one avenue that could be exploited to achieve this endeavour. 

As far as NTU College of Engineering (CoE) is concerned, there are 3 categories of Endowed Professorship: 

Directly administered under NTU 

• Cheng Tsang Man Chair Professorship in Energy 
• Canon Visiting Professorship 
• Tan Kah Kee Professorship 

Directly administered under CoE 

• Tan Chin Tuan Centennial Professorship in Engineering 
• Michael Fam Chair Professorship in Food Science and Technology 

Directly administered under School 

• The SMRT Engineering Excellence Endowment (CEE) 
• MPA Professorship (CEE) 
• Tan Swan Beng Professorship in Construction Industry (CEE)