Utrecht University joined Coimbra Group

Utrecht University has joined the Coimbra Group as its 41th member. Founded in 1985, the Coimbra Group is an association of long-established European comprehensive, multidisciplinary universities of high international standard. The Coimbra Group is committed to creating special academic and cultural ties in order to promote internationalisation, academic collaboration, excellence in learning and research, and service to society.

In the Coimbra Group, Utrecht University is looking for collaboration around its strategic themes and for new forms of exchange and global engagement.

Henk Kummeling onderaan trap
Professor Henk Kummeling, Rector Magnificus

Professor Henk Kummeling, Rector Magnificus of Utrecht University, stated:

“Our new institutional strategic plan (2020-2024) and our strong commitment to our European University Alliance CHARM EU brought us to research the opportunity to become part of the Coimbra Group which has been on our radar for a couple of years now.

Utrecht University has invested strongly in educational innovation for several decades and is proud of its pioneering legacy here. We have also shown great commitment to the development of interdisciplinary research and education. The way in which we conduct research is central to the Utrecht University Open Science Programme. To increase impact, we enter into public engagement through discussions with social parties, citizens and governments about the choice of research, the implementation and the possible application of research results. Transforming the way research and researchers are rewarded and incentivized, Open Access and FAIR data & software are also part of the Open Science Programme.

For many years now we have gained vast experience which can be value to the members of the Coimbra Group. We wish to add to debate and discussion, academically and policy wise. Several members have indicated that the Coimbra Group has helped them shape their societal agenda. Utrecht University will continuously challenge its representatives to spark conversations to shape and sharpen our agenda and inspire others in theirs. We are also very keen to learn Coimbra Group’s views on open science and digitalisation”.