University of Zurich is the largest university in Switzerland and plays a leading role in Swiss higher education. It offers its 24,000 students a wide variety of studies, with more than 100 different degree programs and over 3,000 combinations of disciplines in seven faculties. The university's strong commitment to the highest scientific standards and responsible research is the foundation of excellence in research and teaching. The University of Zurich belongs to the League of European Research Universities (LERU). On the national level, it is the leading institution for five National Centers of Competence in Research in the fields of life sciences, economics, and the humanities. Of great importance to the University of Zurich is the promotion of young academics who are encouraged and supported in their research activities and in preparing for international careers. Through close cooperation with the ETH as well as with other Swiss and international institutions of higher education, the University of Zurich initiates and sustains academic exchange at the highest level. With its modern infrastructure and excellent local and international networks, the University of Zurich is well integrated into the cultural and economic metropolis and offers an attractive and stimulating working environment to more than 2,600 research and teaching staff from all over the world.