The Times Higher Education (THE), in partnership with the Schmidt Science Fellows, has released the Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026 (ISR 2026). Published for the second time, the ranking evaluates universities’ interdisciplinary research capacity and global impact. ISR has quickly become an important new reference point in higher education, highlighting the crucial role of interdisciplinary work in addressing global challenges.
A new generation ranking that measures interdisciplinary research
This year’s ISR 2026 list includes 911 universities from 94 countries or regions, and stands out as a new-generation ranking designed to assess interdisciplinary research performance. Universities are evaluated across 11 indicators grouped under three main areas:
The ISR methodology draws on institutionally submitted data and bibliometric indicators. It also incorporates responses from the Interdisciplinary Science Research Survey, which gathers the views of experienced academics worldwide on excellence in interdisciplinary research.
Methodology expanded this year
In its first edition (ISR 2025), interdisciplinary science was defined primarily as research combining multiple science disciplines such as engineering, life sciences, physical sciences and computer science.
For ISR 2026, the definition was broadened. In addition to combinations of multiple science fields, projects that integrate science disciplines with social sciences, education, psychology, law, economics, or clinical and health fields are now also considered interdisciplinary. This expansion offers significant opportunities for universities with strong multi-disciplinary research structures.
Hacettepe University debuts at 121st in the World
In its first year of participation, Hacettepe University ranked 121st worldwide among 911 institutions in ISR 2026. Nationally, Hacettepe placed 7th among 82 Turkish universities included in the ranking. The university’s strong research capacity, distinguished academic staff, and its ability to integrate health and life sciences with the social sciences contributed to this remarkable debut.
ISR 2026 introduces a ranking approach that considers not only academic outputs but also the institutional structures and research culture that support interdisciplinary work. Hacettepe University’s position -121st globally in its first appearance- highlights the university’s growing international visibility and its strength in multi-disciplinary research.
Click here to view the full ranking details.
Click here to access the ranking methodology.