THES Rankings Top Universities for "International Staff" Indicator

The THES World Rankings of Universities 2007 included a specific indicator that measures the International Staff component, which evaluates universities based on the proportion of faculty members from outside the host country. This indicator reflects the diversity and global outlook of the academic staff at a university, providing an insight into the institution's international appeal and the breadth of expertise brought by faculty members from different cultural, academic, and professional backgrounds.

International staff can enhance the quality of education by introducing diverse perspectives, fostering cross-cultural collaborations, and strengthening global research networks. Universities that rank highly in this indicator are often recognized for their ability to attract world-class faculty from around the globe, contributing to a more dynamic and globally-oriented academic environment.

According to the THES World Rankings of Universities 2007, the top universities for International Staff were primarily based in Hong Kong, Australia, Switzerland, and New Zealand, with several institutions from these regions earning a perfect score of 100.

Hong Kong University of Science & Technology (HKUST) – Score: 100

At the top of the list is Hong Kong University of Science & Technology (HKUST), which achieved a perfect score of 100 in the International Staff indicator. Located in Hong Kong, HKUST is known for its world-class faculty in the fields of science, engineering, business, and management. As a globally-oriented institution, HKUST attracts faculty members from all over the world, especially from Asia, Europe, and North America. The university’s commitment to fostering an international academic community is reflected in its high percentage of international staff, who bring diverse perspectives and global expertise to the campus. HKUST’s reputation for cutting-edge research and its strategic location in one of Asia’s most vibrant cities make it a highly attractive destination for international scholars.

Curtin University of Technology, Australia – Score: 100

In second place is Curtin University of Technology from Australia, also earning a perfect score of 100. Curtin, based in Perth, is one of Australia’s leading universities and has a strong international presence, both in terms of its student body and faculty. Curtin’s commitment to global education is evident in its diverse and highly qualified academic staff, who come from a wide array of countries. The university has established a number of international partnerships and research collaborations, and it offers a broad range of programs that appeal to students and staff from all over the world. Curtin’s emphasis on providing a globally relevant education and creating a multicultural academic environment contributes to its success in this ranking.

University of Otago, New Zealand – Score: 100

The University of Otago, based in Dunedin, New Zealand, ranks third with a perfect score of 100 for International Staff. Otago is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most prestigious universities, known for its strong academic programs in fields such as health sciences, humanities, and the sciences. The university attracts faculty from all over the world, particularly in the fields of medical research, public health, and social sciences. The presence of international faculty contributes to a more diverse and intellectually stimulating environment for students. Otago’s high ranking in the International Staff category reflects its commitment to providing a global perspective on education and research.

Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland – Score: 100

Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland is another university that received a perfect score of 100 for International Staff. EPFL is widely regarded as one of the leading institutions for science and engineering in Europe and has a strong international reputation for research and innovation. With a faculty drawn from all over the world, EPFL’s academic staff represent a wide array of cultures, disciplines, and research specialties. The university’s commitment to internationalization is reflected not only in its faculty but also in its numerous international research collaborations, student exchanges, and academic partnerships. EPFL’s global outlook and its strong focus on cutting-edge research and technology make it an attractive destination for faculty and researchers from around the world.

University of Auckland, New Zealand – Score: 100

University of Auckland, also located in New Zealand, ranks fifth in the International Staff indicator, with a perfect score of 100. As New Zealand’s largest and most comprehensive university, Auckland has built a strong reputation for attracting academic talent from around the globe. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, from arts and humanities to business, engineering, and health sciences. With a diverse faculty that reflects its international partnerships and collaborations, the University of Auckland creates a dynamic academic environment. Its faculty members bring a wealth of global knowledge and experience to the university, enriching the educational experience for both students and fellow faculty members.

Conclusion

The THES World Rankings of Universities 2007 highlight the global nature of higher education and the increasing importance of international staff in contributing to the academic and research excellence of institutions. Universities that perform well in this category, such as HKUST, Curtin University, EPFL, and others, benefit from a diverse and globally-oriented faculty that enhances the educational experience, fosters international collaboration, and strengthens the institution’s reputation in the global academic community.

The success of these universities in attracting international staff reflects their commitment to offering world-class education, research, and innovation that transcend national boundaries. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, universities with strong international staff are well-positioned to lead in global research, attract top talent, and provide students with a truly international education.