University of Basel in Switzerland Offers URIS Fellowships for 2026 – If you’re a scholar working on Ukrainian studies, there’s a prestigious opportunity waiting for you! The University of Basel in Switzerland is now accepting applications for the URIS Fellowships for 2026. This six-month fellowship is designed for researchers focusing on Ukrainian topics in the humanities, cultural studies, or social sciences. With a generous stipend, teaching experience, and access to one of Europe’s top research environments, this is a chance that academics shouldn’t miss.
The Ukrainian Research in Switzerland (URIS) fellowship program is all about connecting Swiss academic networks with Ukrainian expertise. Whether you’re an early-career researcher or a seasoned scholar, this initiative can help you take your project to the next level while contributing to global awareness of Ukraine’s social, political, and cultural dynamics.
University of Basel in Switzerland Offers URIS Fellowships for 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | URIS Fellowships at University of Basel 2026 |
| Duration | 6 months (Spring: Jan–Jun 2026 or Autumn: Jul–Dec 2026) |
| Eligibility | PhD holders in humanities, social sciences, cultural studies, with a focus on Ukraine |
| Stipend | CHF 4,000/month |
| Additional Support | Travel, health insurance, visa fees, Swiss rail pass |
| Application Deadline | April 28, 2025 |
| Where to Apply | URIS Official Website |
The URIS Fellowship 2026 at the University of Basel offers a remarkable platform for scholars to deepen their Ukrainian studies research while gaining international recognition. With a generous stipend, enriching academic environment, and the chance to live in Switzerland, this fellowship can open new doors in your academic journey. Apply before April 28, 2025, and take the next bold step in your research career.
What is the URIS Fellowship?
The URIS (Ukrainian Research in Switzerland) initiative aims to foster better understanding and research about Ukraine through direct academic collaboration. This fellowship offers six months of fully funded research and teaching at the University of Basel, one of the oldest and most respected universities in Europe.
Fellows are expected to teach one Ukraine-related course per week and contribute to academic discussions within the university’s vibrant intellectual community. The position not only boosts your academic career but also helps position Ukraine as a vital subject in global academic discourse.
Who Can Apply?
The URIS Fellowship is open to:
- Scholars with a completed PhD in humanities, cultural studies, or social sciences.
- Academics whose work has a strong Ukraine-focused research agenda.
- Individuals with university-level teaching experience.
- Applicants proficient in English or German (proof required).
You can be a postdoctoral researcher just starting out or a well-established academic. As long as your work contributes meaningfully to understanding Ukraine’s history, culture, politics, or society, your application will be considered seriously.
What Does the Fellowship Offer?
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what successful applicants will receive:
Financial Benefits
- Monthly stipend of CHF 4,000 (approx. €4,180 or $4,400 USD)
- Travel reimbursement (round-trip airfare)
- Visa costs covered
- Health and accident insurance in Switzerland
- Half-fare Swiss rail pass for nationwide public transport
Academic and Professional Perks
- Shared office space with full digital access at the University of Basel
- Direct collaboration with Swiss and international researchers
- Platform to publish research findings, present at seminars, and join URIS events
Personal and Cultural Growth
- Opportunity to live in Basel, one of Europe’s most culturally vibrant and research-intensive cities
- Deepen your understanding of Swiss academic traditions while promoting Ukrainian perspectives
Application Timeline & Important Dates
- Application Deadline: April 28, 2025
- Shortlist Announcement: Expected by June 2025
- Interviews (if needed): June-July 2025
- Final Selection: August 2025
- Start of Fellowship: January 2026 (Spring) or July 2026 (Autumn)
It is strongly recommended to apply well in advance and double-check all documents to avoid disqualification due to incomplete applications.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide for University of Basel in Switzerland Offers URIS Fellowships for 2026?
Step 1: Review the Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- Hold a PhD in a relevant discipline
- Have a current research project related to Ukraine
- Be ready to teach a semester-long course (1.5 hours/week)
- Be willing to live in Basel during the fellowship
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents
Compile the following materials into a single PDF file:
- Completed application form (available on URIS website)
- Statement of purpose outlining your goals, teaching style, and why URIS is a good fit
- Detailed CV including publications
- Copy of university and PhD certificates
- Proof of language proficiency (English or German)
- Outline of your current research project (max 3 pages)
- Course proposal for a Ukraine-related seminar (max 2 pages)
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Email your completed PDF to [email protected] by April 28, 2025.
Step 4: Post-Submission Checklist
- Ensure your email confirmation is received
- Be available for any follow-up queries or interviews
Testimonials from Previous Fellows
“The URIS Fellowship gave me the academic freedom and institutional support to complete a major chapter of my book. Teaching at Basel was a highlight of my career.” — Dr. Natalia Y., 2023 Fellow
“Living in Switzerland while engaging with a world-class academic network was transformative. I built lifelong professional connections.” — Dr. Andrii K., 2022 Fellow
These testimonials underline the real-world impact of the URIS Fellowship on scholars’ careers and research output.
Why Should You Apply?
If you’re passionate about Ukrainian studies and want to amplify your voice in international academia, this fellowship is a golden opportunity. Not only do you get a financial boost, but you also gain:
- A prestigious line on your academic CV
- Teaching experience in a world-class institution
- Access to Swiss and European research networks
- Time and space to focus deeply on your academic work
Past fellows have gone on to secure permanent academic positions, publish books, and influence policy in their home countries. URIS is more than a fellowship—it’s a launchpad.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need to be a Swiss citizen to apply?
No. The fellowship is open to international applicants from all countries.
Q2: Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, but the fellowship stipend is designed for individuals. You may need additional funding to support dependents.
Q3: Is knowledge of German mandatory?
No. English is sufficient, though German is a plus.
Q4: Will I be able to travel during the fellowship?
Yes, especially for academic purposes. The half-fare rail pass supports this.
Q5: Is the fellowship renewable?
No, this is a one-time six-month fellowship.
Q6: What kind of research topics are favored?
Any topic related to Ukraine’s society, politics, history, language, or culture is eligible. Interdisciplinary approaches are welcomed.
Q7: Can I apply while still finishing my PhD?
Unfortunately, no. You must have completed your PhD before the fellowship begins.
