*Closed: Call for Applications: Two URIS Fellowships at the University of Basel (2025)

The initiative ‘Ukrainian Research in Switzerland’ (URIS) invites applications for a URIS Fellowship for a six-month research and teaching stay at the University of Basel for the spring semester 2025 (February – July 2025) and the autumn semester 2025 (August 2025 – January 2026).

The objectives of the initiative are to make a long-term contribution to furthering Ukrainian expertise in Switzerland, to foster the next generation of scholars, and to contribute to the international networks of Switzerland-based university research on Ukraine. URIS contributes to these objectives through the teaching and research of our fellows, through regular events such as our Ukrainian language courses, public and academic events, workshops, or summer schools.

  • The initiative is looking for internationally recognised researchers who are prepared to be involved in the network of Swiss-Ukraine research and to offer a Ukraine-related course at the University of Basel during their stay in Switzerland.
  • The main working focus of URIS in the spring semester 2025 and autumn semester 2025 will be on "Ukraine. A nation between war and reconstruction".
  • The URIS fellowship entails a monthly allowance of CHF 4000. In addition, costs will be reimbursed for visa fees, accident and health insurance coverage in Switzerland, for one round trip to and from Basel from the country of origin, for a subscription entitling the holder to half-price travel on the Swiss Federal Railways, and for all work travels within Switzerland.
  • The recipients are obliged to reside in Basel for the duration of the fellowship.
  • The awarding of the fellowships will be decided by an academic advisory board.
  • *The URIS fellowships are awarded subject to approval of the funding credit by the Federal Assembly and the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).


The deadline for applications is 29 July 2024.

The call for applications (German and English), all requirements and further information can be found below in the download area.

Download CfA and application form (EN/DE)

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the application

1. Which documents must be submitted with the application (in one single pdf document)?

In addition to the application form, which you can find above in the download area or here (DE/EN), you must submit the following documents:

  • Statement of purpose with information on field of research and teaching experience
  • Curriculum vitae incl. list of publications
  • Copies of university degree and PhD certificates
  • Proof of English or German language skills
  • Outline of current research project (not exceeding 3 pages)
  • Concept (not exceeding 2 pages) for a one-semester course

2. Is it necessary to have a completed PhD to apply?

Yes, one of our main application requirements is a completed PhD.

3. I use English in both research and teaching and publish in English. However, I do not have explicit language credentials for this. Can I still apply?

Yes, an English language certificate is not necessary in this case. In individual cases, the URIS Scientific Advisory Board may contact you again to make a final decision.

4. Do I also need to send a hard copy of the application materials by 29 July 2024?

No. We only require a digital application (one single pdf document) via uris@unibas.ch

5. What exactly is meant by „title and summary of research project“?

This refers to the project you want to pursue in Basel (which may also be a project you are currently working on). Our previous fellows have worked for example on their book manuscripts, single book chapters or on smaller or larger publications and projects. Since URIS is a research project to foster Ukrainian expertise in Switzerland, the project must be connected to Ukrainian issues or has a focus on Ukrainian studies.

6. Is it possible to apply without university affiliation? (Is it worth it?)

Yes and absolutely yes.

Contact for any queries

Oliver Göhler
URIS Academic Coordinator
University of Basel, Department of History
uris@unibas.ch

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