Are you a researcher fascinated by how images shape knowledge, society, and science? Do you explore the historical, political, or symbolic functions of visual representation across disciplines? Then here’s your chance to immerse yourself in a fully-funded research year at one of Europe’s leading image theory centers – eikones – Center for the Theory and History of the Image, University of Basel.
The prestigious NOMIS Fellowship Program 2026 is now open for applications! Three fellowships will be awarded to outstanding junior and senior scholars whose innovative research investigates images as models or paradigms in scientific, aesthetic, or cultural contexts.
Why Apply?
Since 2005, eikones has been a hub for interdisciplinary image research, integrating insights from the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. The 2026 NOMIS Fellowship cohort will explore how images enable, construct, or disrupt knowledge – from experimental science illustrations to iconic political symbols or artistic canon formations.
This one (01) year fellowship, starting September 1, 2026, comes with:
- 100% salary coverage
- No teaching or administrative duties
- Dedicated travel and conference funding
- Full access to the University of Basel’s academic resources
- Integration into a vibrant international research community in Switzerland.
Who Should Apply?
The NOMIS Fellowship welcomes applications from scholars in any discipline — history, philosophy, sociology, physics, visual arts, biology, and beyond — whose research tackles the epistemic role of images.
Eligibility Criteria:
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- A doctoral degree is required.
- Applicants must have either:
- Published a monograph (e.g. dissertation), OR
- Three peer-reviewed articles in journals or academic collections.
- The proposed project must engage with images as models in science, culture, or society.
- Applications may be written in German or English.
- Fellows are expected to reside in Basel and participate in institutional events.
Final Selection
The application period for the NOMIS Fellowships 2026 at the University of Basel is currently open. All interested candidates must submit their complete application materials no later than September 1, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. Final selections will be based on academic excellence, originality of the project, and alignment with the fellowship’s theme.