Founded in 1985, the Coimbra Group (CG) is the oldest European universities association, comprising 40 long-standing, comprehensive universities of high, international standard from 22 European countries.

With a secretariat in Brussels, the Coimbra Group has close ties with the European Commission and acts as a lobbying force on policy matters related to European higher education and research. Through a series of thematic working groups related to research, education and outreach, Durham can participate in benchmarking activities, collaborate on research projects, contribute to Coimbra Group publications and policy documents and network with counterparts at Coimbra Group member universities. Student activity coordinated by the network includes a Student Exchange Network run by the Academic Exchange and Mobility working group, and an annual Three Minute Thesis Competition.

Professor Daniel Donoghue is a member of the Coimbra Group Executive Board. Durham is represented and actively participates in the following Coimbra Group Working Groups:

Durham’s Engagement

Durham’s membership brings mutual benefits in terms of increased reputation in Europe, research collaboration, influence over European policy-making, staff and student exchanges between members and intelligence on funding opportunities. Click here for recent examples of Durham’s engagement with Coimbra Group events and initiatives.

For further information, please contact Durham’s Coimbra Group coordinator, Peter Bainbridge: international.partnerships@durham.ac.uk