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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 Spotlight

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.

Encouraging Mutually Beneficial Collaboration with U21 Member Universitas Gadjah Mada

More about Encouraging Mutually Beneficial Collaboration with U21 Member Universitas Gadjah Mada

The University of Zurich hosed a delegation from the Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), the newest member to the university network Universitas 21. During the visit, the two universities discussed ways to build on the institutions’ similarities and existing links.

Opportunities for Researchers

  • 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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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

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U21 Impact Reports

The U21 annual Impact Report is a chance to reflect on the what the network has delivered in the course of a year.