The new chairs, also known as poutoko taiea, have been taken up by Profs Robert Patman, Jacinta Ruru, Neil Gemmell, Greg Cook, Hamish Spencer, Sally Brooker and Philippa Howden-Chapman.
Otago vice-chancellor Harlene Hayne said it was appropriate the initiative was being announced in the university's 150th anniversary year, given Otago's long history of research and tackling big national and international problems.
The chair involved a limited four-year role and a maximum of 10 appointments can be held at any one time.
Prof Patman, who is professor of international relations at the politics department, said his appointment reflected the department's excellence.
An annual National Security Summer School was also planned.
Prof Ruru, of the law faculty, said her appointment was an "incredible opportunity'', and she would be undertaking several projects, including co-editing, with Justice Joe Williams, the country's first comprehensive Maori law treatise.
Prof Gemmell is professor of anatomy and the AgResearch chair in reproduction and genomics.
He plans to continue his work of sparking scientific curiosity and boosting scientific understanding in the community.
work, he said.
Prof Cook, of microbiology and immunology, is an authority on the metabolism and energetics of microbial growth, and has discovered and validated new drug targets for treating tuberculosis disease.
There was also a "tremendous opportunity'' to boost Otago's profile in agricultural innovation, Prof Cook said.
Prof Spencer, of the zoology department, plans increased outreach, engagement and mentoring during his four-year term.
Prof Spencer undertakes research into many topics in evolution and genetics, and has published more than 150 refereed
Prof Brooker, of the chemistry department, was "thrilled'' her team's research had been recognised.
Plans included increasing her work in visiting schools to present the team's solar fuels research, and aiming to inspire pupils, particularly girls, to consider science, she said.
Prof Howden-Chapman, who is professor of public health at Otago's Wellington campus, plans to further raise awareness of the university and two research programmes she chairs.
She co-chairs the he kainga oranga/housing and health research programme, and chairs the New Zealand Centre for Sustainable Cities.