The University of Leeds is collaborating with universities across Europe to deliver impact for local and global communities.
The University has joined the Coimbra Group, an association that promotes higher education internationalisation, academic collaboration, excellence in learning and research and service to society.
The Group’s membership is now expanded to 42 universities, with Newcastle University and the University of Wroclaw, Poland, joining alongside Leeds.
This European university network has a very strong strategic fit with the University of Leeds.
Professor Shearer West CBE, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Leeds, said: “We are excited about the opportunity to contribute to, and benefit from, the Coimbra Group.
“This European university network has a very strong strategic fit with the University of Leeds. In particular, its outward-looking approach, focused on delivering impact for global and local communities, aligns strongly with our own University strategy and mission.”
Professor Ludovic Thilly, Chair of the Executive Board of the Coimbra Group since 2017, said: “Like all other Coimbra Group members, Leeds, Newcastle and Wroclaw excel in research, innovation and education, while championing their contribution to society.
“We are welcoming each of them warmly as we know they will make an impactful contribution to the network, bringing additional vision, knowledge, and influence. We cannot wait to start engaging with their academic, administrative and student communities in our thematic working groups and policy initiatives.”
Strengthening ties to address international challenges
Founded in 1985 and formally constituted by Charter in 1987, the Coimbra Group is celebrating 40 years in 2025, making it the oldest university network in Europe.
The University of Leeds is also a member of the European Universities Association and the Worldwide Universities Network.
In Europe, Leeds is already collaborating with universities in Norway to drive research across culture, energy and health.
The University joined the North Sea University Partnership (NSUP) in 2024. NSUP focuses on the research areas of the Arctic, cultural heritage, health and the North Sea, incorporating energy, marine research and the green transition.
The partnership, made up of eight members including fellow Coimbra Group member the University of Bergen, will strengthen ties and facilitate collaboration between Norwegian and UK universities, addressing international challenges and cultivating academic and research partnerships.
Further information
Please contact the University of Leeds press office at pressoffice@leeds.ac.uk