Leiden’s medical research is dedicated to advancing healthcare through scientific discoveries – from uncovering the causes of diseases to developing new and improved medicines with minimal side effects. This applies to major illnesses such as cancer, cardiovascular conditions, brain disorders and infectious diseases, as well as rare diseases that currently have no treatment options. And what about antibiotics becoming less effective as bacteria develop resistance?

In its multidisciplinary programmes, Leiden University equips students with the expertise to become the pharmaceutical developers of tomorrow. And within its strong network of researchers and biomedical companies, it develops treatments for a wide range of diseases. Our research groups comprise researchers from various disciplines: from medicine and pharmaceutical sciences to biology, chemistry and computer science. We participate in national and international research projects and work with industry and large civil society organisations.

This collaboration drives the development of innovative medicines, delivery methods, and diagnostic tests. It also leads to groundbreaking treatments – such as a technique using modified immune cells to eliminate cancer cells – as well as drugs for muscle diseases and vaccines against malaria.

We also pioneer innovative medical technology, including new animal-free models for testing the safety of medicines. Our work is supported by cutting-edge research facilities, biobanks, patient databases, and pharmaceutical production facilities. Discoveries made in Leiden have laid the foundation for multiple companies specialising in groundbreaking drug development.