University of Basel NOMIS Fellowships 2026 in Switzerland – Fully Funded

University of Basel NOMIS Fellowships 2026 (Fully Funded)

The University of Basel invites applications for the prestigious NOMIS Fellowships 2026 at eikones – Center for the Theory and History of the Image. This opportunity is open to outstanding junior and senior scholars in a wide range of academic disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

Fellows will join an internationally recognized research environment dedicated to exploring the epistemic and symbolic role of images across cultures, disciplines, and time periods.

About eikones – Center for the Theory and History of the Image

Founded in 2005, eikones is a global research hub dedicated to advancing the theory and history of the image. The center explores how images function as cognitive and cultural tools. It offers a rich, interdisciplinary platform for researchers interested in the role of visualization and representation in both scientific and aesthetic domains.

Eligible Disciplines

The NOMIS Fellowships support interdisciplinary research. Applicants may come from, but are not limited to, the following academic areas:

• Art History and Visual Studies

• History and Philosophy of Science

• Media and Cultural Studies

• Social Sciences (Anthropology, Sociology, Political Science)

• Natural Sciences (especially those using imaging techniques)

• Cognitive Science and Neuroscience

• Digital Humanities and Computational Image Analysis

Research Focus: Images as Models

Candidates must propose a research project related to the theme: Images as Models. Topics of interest include:

• Visual modeling in medicine and natural sciences

• Representations in political and social communication

• Canon formation in art and media

• Symbolic and educational use of images

• The role of images in scientific visualization and knowledge creation

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support, including:

• Competitive Salary (as per Swiss academic standards)

• Travel and Conference Funding

• Full Research Infrastructure Access at the University of Basel

• No Teaching or Administrative Responsibilities

• Opportunity to collaborate in a highly interdisciplinary academic community

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the University of Basel NOMIS Fellowship 2026, applicants must:

• Hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree from a recognized institution.

• Have published either:

  • One scholarly monograph (such as a doctoral dissertation), or

  • Three peer-reviewed journal articles or book chapters.

• Submit a research proposal related to the fellowship’s core theme.

• Demonstrate fluency in German or English (applications in either language are accepted).

• Be available to commence the fellowship in 2026.

How to Apply

Application Deadline: September 1, 2025

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following:

1. Cover Letter

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

3. Contact Information for Two Academic Referees

4. Copy of Doctoral Degree Certificate

5. Research Project Proposal (2–3 pages, including references)

6. Writing Sample (~20 pages)

Submission Instructions

• Combine items 2 to 6 into one single PDF file and upload it under the “Resume” field on the University of Basel’s online application portal.

• Upload the cover letter separately under the “Cover Letter” field.

• Only complete applications submitted through the portal will be considered.

Contact for Inquiries

For questions related to the fellowship or application process, please contact:
[email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the NOMIS Fellowships?

Scholars from any nationality with a PhD in relevant fields (humanities, social sciences, natural sciences) are eligible.

2. What does “fully funded” mean in this fellowship?

It includes a competitive salary, travel and conference expenses, and access to research infrastructure—without teaching or administrative duties.

3. Is knowledge of German required?

While proficiency in German is helpful, applications may be submitted in either English or German.

4. Can I apply if my research field is outside the listed disciplines?

Yes, as long as your project is relevant to the overarching theme of images as models in science or art.

5. Are there specific start and end dates for the fellowship?

Exact dates will be discussed with successful applicants, depending on project needs and institutional scheduling.

6. What makes a competitive research proposal?

A strong proposal clearly aligns with the fellowship’s theme, demonstrates originality, and shows how the research contributes to interdisciplinary knowledge.

7. Can I contact the institution before applying?

Yes. For questions, email [email protected] with specific queries about eligibility, fit, or application procedures.