Universiteit Leiden

Leiden University was founded in 1575 and is one of the leading international research universities in Europe. Our research covers a very broad terrain and has a strong disciplinary basis across a wide range of scientific disciplines and fields.

Starting out from this basis, our researchers conduct both disciplinary and interdisciplinary research. They maintain close links with society and draw inspiration from scientific and societal questions of the future, which they translate into fundamental research questions.

The Dutch government’s National Research Agenda is clearly reflected in the themes of our scientific research in Leiden and The Hague. And our research is also increasingly guided by the United Nations’ agenda, expressed in the Sustainable Development Goals. This is especially evident in The Hague, which is the world’s third UN host city, after New York and Geneva.

The results of our research have an impact on society. We use knowledge to improve society and contribute to social debate and political policy-making.

Leiden is a University in two cities. From our three unique campuses – the historic city centre of Leiden, the Leiden Bio Science Park, and Campus The Hague – our researchers bring together international institutions and the public, private and non-profit sectors.