Université libre de Bruxelles

Since its foundation in 1834, the Université libre de Bruxelles has been closely involved in the ongoing debate on critical thinking and freedom. This has included outspoken opposition to dictatorships and other nationalist abuses, the promotion of equal opportunities and a raft of other social issues. ULB has produced four scientific Nobel prizes (Jules Bordet, Albert Claude, Ilya Prigogine and the recent Nobel Prize in Physics awarded to François Englert, emeritus Professor, in 2013), one Nobel Peace Prize (Henri la Fontaine), one Fields medal, three Wolf prizes, two Abel prizes and numerous other awards bear witness to the University’s long tradition of excellence. The ULB partners 20 Doctoral schools, with almost 1,900 PhD in progress. Founded in 1894 by Ernest Solvay fondait à Bruxelles the Institute of Sociology (previously Institute of Social Sciences) devoted attention to both fundamental and empirical research. Actively involved in the European research area, the ULB coordinates or participates in many European projects and networks.  The university has been awarded 20 European Research Council (ERC). Moreover, its institute for European Studies is recognized as a Jean Monnet European Research Centre.