The NOMIS Fellowship 2026 at the University of Basel is one of Europe’s most prestigious fully funded research opportunities for scholars investigating the power of images in science, culture, and society. Hosted by eikones – Center for the Theory and History of the Image, this interdisciplinary fellowship supports outstanding postdoctoral and senior researchers from all disciplines exploring the role of images as models, paradigms, or instruments of knowledge.
This is more than a research grant—it’s an invitation to join a community of thinkers pushing the boundaries of image theory, cultural studies, science communication, and digital visualization.
Host Country and Institution
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Host Institution: University of Basel (eikones Center)
Why This Fellowship is Special
Founded in 2005, eikones is globally recognized for advancing research at the intersection of images, culture, and knowledge. The NOMIS Fellowship frees you from teaching obligations and offers:
- A fully funded year of research
- Interdisciplinary exchange
- Full integration into a vibrant scholarly environment
Benefits of the NOMIS Fellowship 2026
- Competitive Salary for one year (fully funded)
- No teaching or administrative duties, so you can focus solely on your research
- Funding for travel and conferences
- Access to University of Basel’s resources, libraries, and facilities
- Collaboration with top scholars in art history, media studies, neuroscience, philosophy, and more
This fellowship provides both material and intellectual support, enabling fellows to conduct meaningful research in one of Europe’s most respected academic environments.
Eligibility Criteria for NOMIS Fellowship 2026
To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications:
- Hold a PhD (doctoral degree) from a recognized university
- Have published either:
- One monograph (e.g. PhD dissertation), or
- Three peer-reviewed articles in academic journals or edited volumes
Research Focus:
- Your project must investigate images as models, ideally exploring:
- Visual representation in science, medicine, or technology
- Symbolism and aesthetics in cultural production
- Visualization as epistemology
- Image-making in digital humanities
Fields of Study (examples include):
- Humanities (art history, philosophy, media studies)
- Social Sciences (anthropology, political science)
- Natural Sciences (neuroscience, physics with imaging focus)
- Computational sciences with visual analytics or modeling
Language Requirement:
- Proficiency in English or German (applications accepted in either language)
The program is open to all nationalities, and international scholars are encouraged to apply.
Required Documents for NOMIS Fellowship Application
To apply, you must submit the following materials:
Submit as a single PDF file (except cover letter):
- Cover Letter (uploaded separately in the “cover letter” field)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact information for two academic referees (no letters required at this stage)
- Copy of your doctoral degree certificate
- Research project proposal (2–3 pages, plus bibliography)
- A published writing sample (~20 pages)
📄 Format Note: Combine all documents (except the cover letter) into one PDF file and upload it in the “resume” section of the application portal.
Application Timeline for NOMIS Fellowship 2026
- Application Deadline: September 1, 2025
- Start Date: September 1, 2026
- Duration: 1 year (full-time residency in Basel required)
This is a fixed deadline, and late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply for the NOMIS Fellowship
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare Your Application Documents
- Follow the format and file guidelines carefully
- Access the Application Portal
- Go to the official University of Basel jobs page
- Upload Materials
- Upload the cover letter separately
- Upload all remaining materials as one combined PDF
- Confirm Submission
- Only completed applications submitted through the portal will be reviewed
- Interview Stage
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews
Tips for Success:
- Align your research with eikones’ mission: exploring images as instruments of knowledge
- Keep your project focused yet interdisciplinary
- Ensure academic clarity and coherence in your proposal
FAQs about the NOMIS Fellowship
Q1: Can international researchers apply?
Yes. Scholars from any country can apply, as long as they commit to residency in Basel for the fellowship duration.
Q2: Is this for junior or senior scholars?
Both. Early-career postdocs and experienced researchers are eligible, as long as they meet the publication requirements.
Q3: Can I apply if my background is in science?
Yes, especially if your research includes visual modeling, imaging, or epistemology of visuals.
Q4: Do referees need to send letters?
No. You only need to provide contact information for two academic referees.
Final Thoughts on the NOMIS Fellowship 2026
The NOMIS Fellowship 2026 at the University of Basel is more than just academic funding—it’s an intellectual home for researchers committed to understanding how images shape knowledge across science and the humanities. With full financial backing, no teaching burdens, and access to one of Europe’s most forward-thinking image research centers, this opportunity is ideal for scholars ready to push their ideas further.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Switzerland.