Applications are now open for the URIS Fellowships, an opportunity for scholars specializing in Ukrainian studies to conduct research and teach at Switzerland’s University of Basel. Funded by the Ukrainian Research in Switzerland (URIS) initiative, this six-month fellowship aims to strengthen academic expertise on Ukraine while improving international collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and cultural practitioners.
The URIS program supports both emerging and established scholars through:
- Research funding for projects on Ukrainian history, society, politics, or culture.
- Teaching opportunities to design and lead a Ukraine-related course at Basel.
- Networking via workshops, lectures, and language programs.
With its central European location and vibrant academic community, the University of Basel provides an ideal environment for interdisciplinary exchange. Fellows will contribute to Switzerland’s growing network of Ukraine-focused scholarship while advancing their own work alongside leading experts.
Funding Type: Fully Funded
Host Institution: University of Basel, Switzerland
Program Type: Research Fellowship
Deadline: April 28, 2025
Fields: Humanities, Cultural Studies, Social Sciences
Fellowship Details
- Duration: 6 months (Spring Semester: Jan–Jun 2026 or Autumn Semester: Jul–Dec 2026).
- Teaching Commitment: Deliver a 1.5-hour weekly course (in English or German).
- Research Focus: Projects must center on Ukraine (e.g., history, politics, cultural studies).
Financial Benefits of URIS Fellowships
The URIS Fellowship covers all major expenses:
- Monthly stipend: CHF 4,000 (approx. $4,400) for living costs.
- Travel: Round-trip economy airfare from home country to Basel.
- Insurance: Health and accident coverage in Switzerland.
- Additional Support:Visa fee reimbursement, Half-fare Swiss travel card and funding for academic travel within Switzerland.
- Workspace: Shared office with university IT/digital resources.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD in humanities, cultural studies, or social sciences.
- Demonstrate teaching experience at university level.
- Be engaged in Ukraine-related research with potential for scholarly impact.
- Propose a 1-semester course (taught in English/German) aligned with Ukrainian studies.
- Reside in Basel during the fellowship period.
Preferred Qualifications:
- International research profile.
- Commitment to fostering Swiss-Ukrainian academic ties.
Required Documents
Submit the following as a single PDF file:
- Completed URIS Application Form (English/German).
- Statement of Purpose (research goals + teaching philosophy).
- Academic CV with publications list.
- PhD/degree certificates (scanned copies).
- Research Outline (3 pages max) highlighting Ukraine focus.
- Course Proposal (2 pages max) for the 1-semester class.
- Proof of English/German proficiency (if applicable).
How to Apply
- Prepare Documents: Follow the guidelines above.
- Email Submission: Send the PDF to 📧 uris@unibas.ch by April 28, 2025.
- Selection Process:
- Review by URIS Academic Advisory Board.
- Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed.
- Results announced by August 2025.
Note: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why Apply?
- Engage with Basel’s interdisciplinary research community.
- Improve teaching portfolio and publish findings.
- Contribute to Ukraine’s academic diaspora in Europe.
Key Dates
- Deadline: April 28, 2025
- Fellowship Period: Jan–Jun or Jul–Dec 2026
For questions, contact:
📧 uris@unibas.ch | 🌐 URIS Official Website