Ghent University is one of the leading institutions of higher education and research in the Dutch-speaking region of Europe, with 38,000 students, 11 faculties and 1,200 professors. It is located in Flanders. Founded in 1817, it is an open, committed and pluralistic university with a broad international perspective. Several research departments in various scientific disciplines are renowned worldwide, such as biotechnology, aquaculture, microelectronics and history.