The University of Basel Switzerland NOMIS Fellowship stands as a distinguished beacon for postdoctoral researchers committed to pushing the boundaries of scientific inquiry. Rooted in the principle of interdisciplinary innovation, this fellowship is a collaborative initiative between the University of Basel—one of the oldest and most prestigious research institutions in Europe—and the NOMIS Foundation, a private Swiss foundation dedicated to supporting high-risk, high-reward research. The 2025 application cycle is now open.
Why the University of Basel?
Founded in 1460, the University of Basel is Switzerland’s oldest university and consistently ranks among the top institutions in Europe. It boasts a vibrant academic culture, renowned faculty, and an unwavering commitment to cutting-edge research. With six faculties and numerous interdisciplinary research centers, the university provides the perfect backdrop for scholars who wish to transcend disciplinary boundaries.
Researchers at Basel benefit from:
- Proximity to world-class institutes such as the Biozentrum, the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), and the Center for African Studies.
- Collaborations with local industries, including pharmaceutical giants like Novartis and Roche.
- A multicultural academic community with access to diverse research infrastructure and funding opportunities.
The city of Basel itself is a global hub for life sciences and innovation, situated at the intersection of Switzerland, Germany, and France. Its cosmopolitan environment and quality of life make it an ideal destination for international scholars.
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About the University of Basel Switzerland NOMIS Fellowship
The NOMIS Fellowship Program at the University of Basel is designed to empower exceptional postdoctoral researchers by providing them the autonomy, resources, and support needed to develop and lead pioneering research projects that intersect multiple disciplines. The fellowship invites applications from individuals who dare to challenge traditional academic silos and are driven by curiosity, creativity, and the potential to catalyze transformative change in science and society.
The NOMIS Foundation partners with premier institutions across the globe, and its partnership with the University of Basel is among the most prestigious. The fellowship offers a unique combination of intellectual freedom and collaborative engagement, aiming to create a ripple effect of innovation both within academia and beyond.
Scope and Objectives of the NOMIS Fellowship
The NOMIS Fellowship encourages projects that tackle fundamental scientific challenges with far-reaching implications. The programme seeks researchers who are willing to take intellectual risks, explore uncharted territories, and develop novel theories or methodologies.
Key focus areas include, but are not limited to:
- Human cognition and behavior
- Life sciences and bioengineering
- Philosophy, ethics, and artificial intelligence
- Climate and environmental science
- Socioeconomic systems and global health
- Neuroscience and consciousness studies
Rather than setting narrow thematic boundaries, the fellowship emphasizes the quality of the proposal, the originality of the research question, and the interdisciplinary approach. Researchers are encouraged to design their own agendas, build interdisciplinary collaborations, and engage with Basel’s extensive academic networks.
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Fellowship Structure and Benefits
The NOMIS Fellowship at the University of Basel offers an exceptional support package designed to allow researchers to focus entirely on their work.
Key Features:
- Generous Funding
Each fellowship is fully funded for a duration of up to three years, covering salary, research costs, and travel allowances. The fellowship offers a highly competitive remuneration package in accordance with Swiss academic salary standards. - Research Autonomy
Fellows are free to define and pursue their own research questions, methodologies, and collaborations. This autonomy empowers them to create work that is both personally meaningful and scientifically impactful. - Dedicated Mentorship
Fellows work closely with a faculty mentor at the University of Basel who supports their academic development and facilitates cross-departmental collaborations. - Integration into the Basel Research Community
Fellows are integrated into the university’s academic ecosystem and are encouraged to present their work at seminars, workshops, and public events. They may also mentor doctoral students and contribute to academic teaching. - Access to World-Class Infrastructure
Fellows benefit from access to advanced laboratories, high-performance computing resources, libraries, and cross-disciplinary research centers across the university and its affiliated institutes.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the 2025 NOMIS Fellowship at the University of Basel, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Hold a PhD (or equivalent degree) awarded no more than 10 years before the application deadline.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record, evidenced by publications in high-impact journals and/or significant contributions to their respective field.
- Present a compelling and original research proposal that incorporates interdisciplinary elements and aligns with the broader goals of the NOMIS Foundation.
- Show evidence of strong potential for independent research and leadership.
Candidates from all nationalities and backgrounds are welcome to apply. The programme strongly encourages diversity in scientific perspectives, gender, and cultural representation.
Application Process
Applications for the 2025 cycle must be submitted online through the official University of Basel NOMIS Fellowship portal.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (max 5 pages)
Include academic background, employment history, publications, grants, awards, and relevant activities. - Research Proposal (max 5 pages)
Clearly outline the research objectives, methodology, interdisciplinary components, expected impact, and timeline. - Motivation Letter
Explain your interest in the fellowship, the University of Basel, and your broader research vision. - Letters of Recommendation (2 required)
From academic referees who can attest to your potential and accomplishments. - Letter of Support from a Basel Faculty Mentor
Applicants are expected to initiate contact with a faculty member at the University of Basel who agrees to act as a mentor during the fellowship.
Deadline:
All materials must be submitted by 1 September 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, and final selections are expected to be announced by November 2025. Fellowships will typically begin in early 2026.
For full details and to apply, visit the official NOMIS Fellowship page on the University of Basel’s website.
Impact and Testimonials
Since its inception, the NOMIS Fellowship at the University of Basel has supported numerous high-impact research projects. Fellows have gone on to publish in top-tier journals, secure faculty positions, and lead transformative research initiatives.
“The NOMIS Fellowship gave me the freedom to explore radical ideas that would not have been possible under conventional funding schemes. Basel’s collaborative ecosystem helped turn those ideas into tangible results.”
— Dr. Andrea Kovacs, NOMIS Fellow 2022
“Being a NOMIS Fellow was intellectually liberating. I collaborated with neuroscientists, philosophers, and AI experts—all under one roof. It was one of the most stimulating experiences of my academic career.”
— Prof. Leon Thomas, NOMIS Fellow 2021
Conclusion
The University of Basel Switzerland NOMIS Fellowship is more than just a postdoctoral opportunity—it is a launchpad for the next generation of interdisciplinary leaders in science and society. With its generous support, academic freedom, and commitment to innovation, the programme is ideally suited for scholars who are ready to challenge the status quo and redefine what is possible.
If you’re a researcher with bold ideas and a passion for crossing boundaries, this fellowship offers you the space and resources to thrive.
Apply before 1 September 2025 and take your research journey to the next level in the heart of Europe.
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