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Universitas 21

Global Network of Research-intensive Universities

Universitas 21 Members across the globe. Image: U21

Universitas 21 (U21) is a diverse, global network that brings together world-leading, research-intensive universities across six continents, who share a common belief in the value of collaboration and internationalisation. 

The University of Zurich has been a member since May 2017 and is the only Swiss university member. UZH's involvement supports the internationalization strategy, fosters innovative approaches, promotes research-inspired teaching and learning as well as student mobility.

Focus on Education, Research and Student Experience

U21's wide-ranging activities fall into three areas of focus: Educational Innovation, Research Engagement, and Student Experience.

The goal is to build a global perspective into as many university-related topics as possible, and to promote collaboration in these areas. This enables UZH to encourage greater levels of student and staff mobility, develop deeper links with prestigious international partners and pursue joint research on a truly global stage.

Collaboration Highlights

Additional Information

Advancing Disability Inclusion through Universitas 21 Collaboration

More about Advancing Disability Inclusion through Universitas 21 Collaboration

The 21 Disability Inclusion Policy Mapping Report provides practical guidance for advancing disability inclusion in higher education. Developed through global collaboration within the Universitas 21 network, the report highlights how universities, including the University of Zurich, can work together to create more equitable learning environments. 

Building Trust with Universities and Across the Globe

More about Building Trust with Universities and Across the Globe

Universities are grappling with political pressures and geopolitical polarization. Open exchange among universities from around the world is essential to navigate this landscape collaboratively. University networks such as Universitas 21 (U21) are important to provide a platform for exchange and to continue to build trust.

Law and Technology Winter School: A Collaborative Success Between UZH and UNSW

More about Law and Technology Winter School: A Collaborative Success Between UZH and UNSW

From 20 to 31 January 2025, the University of Zurich (UZH) hosted the winter school "Law and Technology - A Cross-Continental Perspective" in collaboration with the University of New South Wales (UNSW). This program united students from both institutions for an immersive academic and cultural experience.

Opportunities for Researchers and Staff

  • Mid-Career Researcher Program

    The Mid-Career Researcher Program is a 4-week online course for mid-career researchers (e.g. Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor) that teaches how to thrive within a collaborative research culture. Nominations will open in fall 2026.
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  • U21 Awards

    The U21 Awards is an annual chance to recognise and celebrate the best in international collaboration across the network.
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  • U21 Global Leadership Program

    The U21 Global Leadership Program is an exclusive 4-week online course for emerging leaders from academic and professional disciplines. The program reflects the dynamic challenges in our institutions and the leadership required to individually and collectively navigate this new context. Nomination will open in October 2026.
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  • Overview Researcher Opportunities

    U21 offers graduate and postgraduate researchers a range of opportunities from across the network including workshops and funding opportunities. These encourage researchers to think and work collaboratively, taking into account global perspectives.
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  • Early Career Researcher Workshops

    U21's unique series of workshops committed to enhancing international networking and encouraging collaborative research for those in the early stages of their career.
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  • U21 Three Minute Thesis Competition

    The Three Minute Thesis competition (3MT®) challenges research students to communicate the significance of their projects to a non-specialist audience in just three minutes.
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  • Funding – UZH Global Funding Scheme for joint projects

    The UZH Global Funding Scheme supports faculties, departments and professional service units in pursuing activities that strengthen the impact of the global UZH network in line with the Global Strategy. The funding scheme is open to joint initiatives with all U21 partner universities.
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  • Funding – U21 Funding Opportunities data base

    Explore seed-funding opportunities available across the Universitas 21 network to support joint research, academic exchange, and strategic collaboration.
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  • Nature Positive Initative

    An alliance of leading global universities working together to rigorously evaluate and refine the Nature Positive Initiative’s State of Nature metrics to support equitable and effective nature protection and restoration worldwide.
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Testimonials

Additional Information

Inês Dias, Postdoctoral Researcher at UZH, participant of the U21 Early Career Researcher Workshop 'Living Well Across the Life Course'

“Representing the University of Zurich at the U21 Early Career Researcher Workshop was an inspiring experience. Connecting with peers from around the world sparked meaningful conversations on wellbeing, career paths, and international collaboration. I left with fresh insights and renewed motivation. I am very grateful to Universitas 21 for facilitating this amazing experience!”

Daniel Wiedemeier, Senior Researcher/Lecturer, participant of the U21 Mid-Career Researcher Program

“The U21 Mid-Career Researcher Program was a valuable opportunity to connect with researchers from around the world and to reflect more strategically on my own academic career. I particularly appreciated the structured format, the international exchange, and the way the program helped me translate reflection into concrete next steps.”

Opportunities for Students

  • Overview Student Opportunities

    U21 student opportunities provides UZH students with intercultural opportunities and experiences to develop and learn essential, new skills for our interconnected world.
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  • U21 Global Citizens Program

    Universitas 21 Global Citizens is a three-week, online leadership development course with 75 student spaces available per university.
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  • Real Impact on Society and Environment Showcase (RISE)

    RISE is an international showcase of student achievement in sustainability and social innovation designed to accelerate the scale and impact of student-led projects. UZH may nominate a student-led project that addresses at least one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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  • Funding – Scholarships for U21 Summer Schools

    UZH students participating in summer schools or other short programs offered by U21 universities can profit from scholarships.
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UZH Representation on U21 Groups and Activities

To advance the shared goals within UZH, University of Zurich representatives are working on and contributing to activities within the U21 framework. Learn more about UZH representation in U21 here.
 

Attendees of the U21 Researcher Engagement Meeting hosted by the University of Zurich. Image: Andrin Owassapian

Additional Information

Main Contacts at UZH

Katja Durkin, U21 Senior Leader
Head Global Affairs
E-Mail

Leslie Reinhard, U21 Officer
Partnership Manager Global Networks
E-Mail

Logo U21

U21 Impact Reports