Cihan University-Erbil Achieves Distinguished Ranking in THE Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026
Erbil, Iraq – Cihan University-Erbil has secured a remarkable position in the Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026, ranking 4th among Iraqi universities and 2nd among private universities in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. The rankings, published on November 20, 2025, highlight the university’s growing excellence in interdisciplinary scientific research.
The Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings, developed in partnership with Schmidt Science Fellows, is a prestigious global benchmark that measures universities’ contributions and commitment to interdisciplinary science. The 2026 edition evaluated 911 universities from 94 countries and territories, marking a significant expansion from the inaugural edition.
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A Testament to Academic Excellence
This achievement reflects Cihan University-Erbil’s dedication to fostering collaborative research that bridges multiple scientific disciplines. The ranking methodology assesses institutions across three critical pillars:
- Inputs: Research funding and industry partnerships
- Process: Institutional support, facilities, and promotion systems for interdisciplinary teams
- Outputs: Research publications, citation impact, and academic reputation
The university’s strong performance demonstrates its ability to create an environment that encourages researchers to work across traditional disciplinary boundaries, addressing complex global challenges through integrated approaches.
Regional Leadership in Innovation
Securing the 2nd position among private universities in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region underscores Cihan University-Erbil’s role as a regional leader in advancing interdisciplinary scientific research. This ranking reflects the institution’s investment in research infrastructure, faculty development, and collaborative research initiatives.
The university’s 4th place nationally among Iraqi universities further solidifies its reputation as one of the country’s premier research institutions, competing successfully with both public and private universities across Iraq.
Commitment to Global Standards
The 2026 rankings feature an expanded definition of interdisciplinary science, now including research projects that combine multiple scientific disciplines or integrate science with social sciences, education, psychology, law, economics, and medical fields. This broader scope better captures the diverse nature of contemporary research challenges and the innovative approaches universities are developing to address them.
Cihan University-Erbil’s inclusion in this global ranking places it alongside some of the world’s most prestigious institutions committed to interdisciplinary excellence. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) claimed the top spot globally for the second consecutive year, followed by Stanford University and other leading international universities.
Looking Forward
This recognition in the THE Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026 reinforces Cihan University-Erbil’s strategic vision to become a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation in the region. The university continues to invest in creating collaborative research environments, fostering partnerships with international institutions, and supporting faculty and students in pursuing interdisciplinary approaches to solve real-world problems.
As higher education institutions worldwide increasingly recognize the importance of breaking down traditional academic silos, Cihan University-Erbil’s achievement demonstrates its readiness to compete on the global stage and contribute meaningfully to scientific advancement.
