The Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce has congratulated the University of Oxford after it was named the world’s leading university for an unprecedented eleventh consecutive year in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027.
The University has held the number one position since 2017, marking the longest period any institution has held the top position in the ranking’s 22-year history. This year’s rankings assessed a record 2,297 universities from 118 countries.
Dr Murray Gardner, Head of Strategic Engagement & Regional Partnerships, University of Oxford, said:
“Oxford’s position as the world’s number one university is a remarkable achievement, but it also gives us an extraordinary platform for what comes next. The opportunity is to connect the University’s research, talent and innovation more effectively with businesses, investors and communities across Oxfordshire and the wider region, helping more companies to start, scale and locate here, attracting investment and ensuring that innovation-led growth creates opportunity for more people.
“Equinox is a University of Oxford initiative bringing together partners from across Oxfordshire to make those connections easier and strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem. Together, our mission is to turn Oxford’s world-leading strengths into lasting economic and social impact, creating more opportunity for more of Oxfordshire.”
Commenting on the achievement, Chief Executive of Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, Paul Britton, said:
“To be recognised as the world’s leading university for an eleventh consecutive year is an extraordinary achievement and one that deserves recognition across the Thames Valley and beyond.
The University of Oxford is one of the region’s greatest strengths, renowned internationally for the excellence of its teaching, research and contribution to society. Its success enhances the global reputation of the Thames Valley and reinforces our position as a region known for talent, ambition and achievement.
On behalf of the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, I would like to congratulate everyone across the University whose dedication and expertise have contributed to this remarkable success.”
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings are based on 17 performance indicators covering teaching, research, knowledge transfer, international outlook and industry engagement. Oxford achieved outstanding scores across all major metrics, including research excellence, teaching reputation and research productivity.
The University of Oxford remains one of the Thames Valley’s most significant assets, contributing not only to world-leading research and education but also to innovation, investment and economic growth across the region.
For more information, read the University of Oxford’s announcement here

