Overview
For Students
Teaching and Research
profile logo default

University of Basel

Ranked
Basel, Switzerland
120th in World University Rankings 2026
  • About
  • Rankings
  • Impact Rankings
  • Key stats
  • Jobs
  • Subjects
  • Downloads
  • FAQs
  • Suggested universities

About the University of Basel

Basic information and contact details for the University of Basel

institution

The University of Basel was founded in 1460, making it the oldest university in Switzerland and one of the oldest higher education institutions in the world.

Originally, it was made up of just four faculties - arts, jurisprudence, medicine and theology. Today, it has seven faculties covering a huge range of academic disciplines, and is academic home to tens of thousands of students, including more than 2,500 doctoral candidates.

Basel University Library, meanwhile, contains more than 8 million items. This makes it one of the largest libraries in Switzerland.

In addition to this main library, there are two more specialised collections: the University Medical Library and the University Business and Economics Library/Swiss Economics Archive.

The university has experienced mixed fortunes during its 550 year history, and at one point in the 18th century had just 60 students enrolled. Around this time, there were discussions about dissolving the university altogether.

The institution rallied, however, and in the 20th century, despite the challenges of two world wars, it grew in size and strength.

In 1997, the University of Basel opened the University of Seniors, offering higher education to older people. It followed this in 2004 by establishing the Children’s University for eight to 12-year-olds, designed to introduce these youngsters to the world of science and give them a behind-the-scenes look at a modern university.

The university campus is located in the heart of the city centre, near to the River Basel.

Notable alumni of the University of Basel include the German scientist William Theilheimer, Swiss author and psychologist Alice Miller, the founder of analytical psychology Carl Gustav Jung, and the biochemist Emil Abderhalden.

Rankings

Select the type of rankings below to see stats

Discover similar universities

Find out more about studying, research and jobs at these universities

the colour logo

suggested

Key Student Statistics

A breakdown of student statistics at the University of Basel

gender ratio
Student gender ratio
57 F : 43 M (1)
globe fill
International student percentage
32% (1)
student per staff
Students per staff
11.1 (1)
student
Student total
8655 (1)

Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2026

lightbulb up

Do you work for this institution?

Make your university stand out by adding more stats, events and more.

Jobs you might be interested in

You may want to explore jobs from other universities which are relevant to you

See all

AGC - Open-Rank Faculty Position in Environmental OMICS

MOHAMMED VI POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University

Morocco

institution

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University

Morocco


The African Genome Center (AGC) invites applications for an open-rank faculty position in Environmental OMICS. This position focuses on the application of high-throughput OMICS approaches (genomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) as well as metabarcoding to investigate biological systems within environmental contexts. The successful candidate will contribute to advancing our understanding of microbial, plant, and ecosystem-level processes that drive environmental function, resilience, and sustainability. Applicants should demonstrate strong expertise in analyzing OMICS data generated from environmental samples, enabling insights into biodiversity, community structure, functional potential, and ecosystem processes. Experience in integrating multi-omics datasets and linking molecular data with environmental, ecological, or biogeochemical variables is highly desirable. The successful candidate is expected to have an excellent publication record in environmental OMICS or closely related fields. In addition, candidates should demonstrate a proactive approach to developing an independent research program, strong collaborative skills, and a clear commitment to interdisciplinary research. This position is embedded within a highly interdisciplinary research environment and offers opportunities to collaborate with researchers across diverse domains, including biodiversity genomics, microbial ecology, genome editing, agricultural and environmental biotechnology, natural product chemistry, metabolic engineering, and microbiology, among others. Responsibilities The primary responsibilities of the successful candidate include: Supervising graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in environmental OMICS, microbial ecology, and related disciplines. Developing and leading collaborative research initiatives in environmental OMICS, with a particular emphasis on African ecosystems and environmental challenges. Contributing to institutional research activities, academic programs, and broader scientific and training initiatives. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet the following requirements: A PhD in environmental OMICS, molecular biology, microbial ecology, environmental biotechnology, or a closely related field. Postdoctoral research experience is highly preferred. Demonstrated expertise in environmental OMICS, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and competitive research projects. Strong oral and written communication skills suitable for diverse academic and non-academic audiences. A demonstrated commitment to excellence in research and graduate training. Application Procedure Interested candidates should submit the following documents via (SuccessFactors link): A cover letter Curriculum vitae A statement of research and teaching interests Contact information for three references For more information, please visit the AGC website: http://agc.um6p.ma or contact: Prof. Mohamed Hijri (Mohamed.hijri@um6p.ma) About the African Genome Center The African Genome Center (AGC) is a research-driven institution organized around four major research axes: Biodiversity Genomics; OMICS and Metabolic Engineering; Genome Editing; and Natural Product Chemistry and Metabolomics. AGC hosts an advanced genomics platform, together with CoreLabs that house state-of-the-art equipment spanning biosciences, analytical chemistry, and materials science. These facilities position AGC as a central hub for genome biology research and training in Morocco and across Africa. AGC brings together an international and multicultural scientific community with a mission to democratize genomics research on the African continent through both fundamental and applied research addressing key challenges in agriculture, conservation, environmental sustainability, food security, and human health. The Center is also strongly committed to technology transfer and to the training of highly qualified scientists and professionals.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

16 Jan 2026

Lecturer / Assistant Professor, School of Nursing

MAYNOOTH UNIVERSITY

Maynooth University

Ireland, Maynooth

institution

Maynooth University

Ireland, Maynooth


Department: School of Nursing Vacancy ID: 039483 Closing Date: 15-Feb-2026 The Role  Maynooth University is committed to a strategy in which the primary University goals of excellent research and scholarship and outstanding education are interlinked and equally valued. We are seeking excellent academics to join our staff as an Assistant Professor/Lecturer in Clinical Skills and Simulation-Based Education. The persons appointed will have a proven record of teaching, research and publication, appropriate to career stage. They will be expected to make a strong contribution to the teaching programme of the Department and undertake teaching duties on the Department’s undergraduate and postgraduate programmes as well as the supervision of Master’s and PhD students. The appointees will be expected to build a strong research profile in clinical skills and simulation-based education, They will be responsible, with other members of the team, for developing and managing the clinical skills and simulation suite whilst teaching therein through a diverse range of modalities including face-to-face in the classroom and skill laboratory (synchronous and asynchronous teaching), simulation and the virtual learning environment. In this role, they will also expand knowledge and practice through research and scholarly activity. Salary  Assistant Professor / Lecturer: €64,753 – €102,539 p.a. (7 points) Assistant Lecturer: €42,099 - €71,998 p.a (14 points) Appointments will be made in accordance with public sector pay provisions. Closing Date: 23:30hrs (local Irish time) on Sunday, 15th of February 2026. Please note all applications must be made via our Online Recruitment Portal at the following link: https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/human-resources/vacancies Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified above. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. Late applications will not be accepted. Maynooth University is an equal opportunities employer The position is subject to the Statutes of the University

Salary

€42,099 - €102,539 p.a.

Posted

15 Jan 2026

Research Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics

HONG KONG BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

Hong Kong Baptist University

Hong Kong

institution

Hong Kong Baptist University

Hong Kong


Job Description FACULTY OF SCIENCE DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS The Department is strongly committed to producing top-class research in the areas of applied mathematics, scientific computing and statistics, while simultaneously emphasises the nurturing of students from a wide range of academic backgrounds. It receives allocation from Science Faculty Niche Research Area to establish world-class research teams to develop the necessary experimental platforms, modelling and data analysis capabilities. Research Assistant Professor (25260446) Responsibilities: The Department is recruiting one scholar at the rank of Research Assistant Professor in applied probability, data science, machine learning, and spatial statistics. Candidates with a strong background in the development of novel models and original methodologies are preferred. Requirements: Applicants should possess a relevant PhD degree with a solid and outstanding track record in research. They should have a solid statistical background, and a strong commitment to excellence in teaching and mentorship. The initial appointment will be made on a fixed-term contract of two years. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Application Procedure: Applicants are invited to submit their applications at the HKBU e-Recruitment System with samples of publications, preferably three best ones out of their most recent publications/works. They should also request two referees to send in confidential letters of reference, with job identification number (stated above) quoted on the letters, to the Human Resources Office (Email: hro@hkbu.edu.hk) direct. Those who are not invited for interview 2 months after submission of application may consider their applications unsuccessful. All application materials including publication samples, scholarly/creative works will be disposed of after completion of the recruitment exercise. Details of the University’s Personal Information Collection Statement can be found at https://hro.hkbu.edu.hk/en/worklife-at-hkbu/employee-favourable-environment.html#privacy-policy. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment for the post advertised, and the appointment will be made according to the terms and conditions applicable at the time of offer. Review of applications is ongoing until the position is filled.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

16 Jan 2026

Tenure-Track Professor/Associate/Assistant Professor in Public Administration

THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG

The University of Hong Kong

Hong Kong

institution

The University of Hong Kong

Hong Kong


Ref.: 534182 Work type: Full-time Department: Department of Politics and Public Administration (30100) Categories: Professoriate Staff Applications are invited for appointment as Tenure-Track Professor/Associate/Assistant Professor in Public Administration in the Department of Politics and Public Administration (2 posts) (Ref.: 534182), to commence as soon as possible, on a three-year fixed-term basis, with the possibility of renewal and consideration for tenure before the expiry of a second three-year fixed-term contract. Exceptionally outstanding candidates may be considered for appointment on direct tenure terms subject to University’s approval. The Department expects to appoint one senior and one early-career professor but is open to other combinations of appointments. About the Department. The Department of Politics and Public Administration has played a leading role the University and its global disciplines since its establishment in 1970. In addition to a competitive PhD research degree programme, the Department offers three highly successful taught postgraduate programmes – Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master in International and Public Affairs (MIPA), and Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) – as well as thriving undergraduate programmes. The Department’s faculty members are research active, diverse, international and highly collegial. Many have received training and work experience in the most prestigious departments and universities in North America, Europe and across Asia. Their expertise spans the fields of Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, and Public Administration (including public policy, public management, and non-profit studies). For more information about the Department, visit https://ppa.hku.hk/. The Position. Appointees will contribute to the Department’s thriving graduate and undergraduate teaching programmes. They should have a PhD degree in a related field and will have significant achievements in relation to research, teaching and institutional service commensurate with the level of appointment they seek. Research achievements are expected to include peer-reviewed articles in esteemed journals and competitive research grants. Teaching achievements are expected to include the development of new courses and programmes and practice in innovative pedagogical methods. Applications are particularly encouraged from candidates with a strong international research and teaching profile. The Department will consider candidates with any geographical specialisation and field of Public Administration. What We Offer. A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. At the current rates, salaries tax does not exceed 15% of the gross income. The appointment will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of the basic salary. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable. New faculty members are entitled to generous research support to continue their work in a new environment and develop grant proposals for local and international sources of funding, and, in the case of pre-tenure colleagues, mentorship from senior members at the Department. How to Apply: The University accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload (1) an up-to-date CV, (2) a letter of interest, (3) a research statement, (4) a teaching statement, and (5) the names and contact details of three referees who may be approached if the candidate is shortlisted. Candidates may also provide additional supporting materials including teaching evaluations. Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until April 30, 2026 or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier. Enquiries may be directed to the Head of Department, Professor Robert Thomson (rthomson@hku.hk).

Salary

Competitive salary

Posted

16 Jan 2026

Director of Health, Safety, Resilience and Security Risk

DURHAM UNIVERSITY

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham

institution

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham


Durham University is seeking to appoint to the post of Director of Health, Safety, Resilience and Security Risk to provide leadership, management, guidance, and support for all aspects of health, safety, business continuity and resilience, and security risk across the University. You will oversee the corporate strategy, objectives, arrangements, and infrastructure for the portfolio, as well as monitoring the levels of compliance, conformity, resilience, and implementation, while keeping the University Executive Committee (UEC) and other senior leaders informed of any issues, providing internal independent advice and guidance, across the University. You will have responsibility for developing and maintaining the associated management systems, and reviewing and refreshing existing policies and processes, as required.In addition, you will develop associated strategies, promote best practices and ensure full compliance while reinforcing a positive risk management culture across the University. This role, while positioned within the University Secretary's Office, has responsibilities that span across the entire University. The post-holder is expected to provide expertise, guidance, and advice to ensure a safe and secure environment for all academic, student, professional service, and visitor-related activities. The University Secretary's Office ensures regulatory and legal compliance across the University and oversees the framework for good governance to ensure that our decisions are robust and appropriate. The closing date for applications is midnight on Friday 23 January 2026. Interviews will be held on Wednesday 11 February 2026.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

16 Jan 2026

Subjects Taught at the University of Basel

See below for a range of subjects taught at the University of Basel

Arts and Humanities

  • Archaeology
  • Art, Performing Art and Design
  • History, Philosophy and Theology
  • Languages, Literature and Linguistics

Business and Economics

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Business and Management
  • Economics and Econometrics

Computer Science

  • Computer Science

Education Studies

  • Education

Law

  • Law

Life Sciences

  • Biological Sciences
  • Sport Science

Medical and Health

  • Medicine and Dentistry
  • Other Health

Physical Sciences

  • Chemistry
  • Geology, Environmental, Earth and Marine Sciences
  • Mathematics and Statistics
  • Physics and Astronomy

Psychology

  • Psychology

Social Sciences

  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Geography
  • Politics and International Studies
  • Sociology