The University of Bath has today announced that it will join the Young European Research Universities Network (YERUN).

As part of YERUN, Bath will collaborate with universities across Europe with the aims of growing research partnerships, fostering innovation and best practice, and influencing EU policy in the sector.

The University will be formally welcomed into YERUN at a General Assembly to be held at the University of South-Eastern Norway in March 2026.

Professor Phil Taylor, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Bath, said: “Becoming a member of YERUN, in our 60th anniversary year, will boost the strong international community we have built at the University of Bath, allied to our research impact, global alumni network and excellent graduate outcomes. I look forward to meeting with other YERUN universities in the coming months.”

Dag Rune Olsen, YERUN President, said: “Welcoming the University of Bath to YERUN is a significant and very positive step for our network. The University of Bath embodies the core characteristics of a young research university: excellence in research and education, and a clear commitment to societal impact.

“Bath’s focus on sustainability, health, and digital innovation, combined with deep local and regional engagement, strongly resonates with YERUN’s mission to contribute to the development of Europe’s research and education landscape.”

YERUN further provides the opportunity for the University to increase staff and student mobility, as well as developing Bath’s existing strong links to industry, and providing a platform to join EU policy discussions related to research, innovation, and education. Bath would become the fourth UK university to join YERUN.

Professor Manuel Barcia, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement) at the University of Bath, said: “YERUN will provide us with many fantastic opportunities for collaboration across Europe including facilitating joint research projects, student exchanges and shared funding opportunities. I am excited to begin working with the network in supporting one another to thrive and deliver impact.”

Silvia Gómez Recio, YERUN Secretary General, said: “We closed the year with the UK’s return to Erasmus+ and began 2026 by welcoming the University of Bath to YERUN, further strengthening our representation in the UK. Bath brings a strong and highly complementary profile to the network, with recognised strengths in research excellence, education, and civic engagement.

“Its existing links with several YERUN members provide a solid foundation for collaboration, and we look forward to the perspectives and expertise that Bath will contribute to YERUN’s activities and shared priorities.”