This research and teaching focuses on behavioural and policy interventions for society and groups within society to prevent disease, increase well-being and minimise health inequalities. We study factors that promote or threaten health within groups such as local communities or people with limited health literacy.

The more we understand the development of health within specific groups, the better we can treat or even prevent common conditions that arise within these groups, such as cardiovascular diseases or psychiatric problems.

We conduct this research in real-world settings embedded within society (such as Health Campus The Hague and the Leiden Healthy Society Center), examining the biological, psychological and social factors that influence health issues and how they interconnect. We work closely with a range of stakeholders, from behavioural scientists to drug developers, from communities to care providers and from hospitals to municipalities.

We use this knowledge in our research, teaching (for example, the Master’s in Population Health Management and the LDE minor in Co-creating a Healthy Society) and policy advice. We also develop innovative interventions and support professionals in building healthy, resilient communities, thus relieving pressure on healthcare. This approach makes people healthier, reduces healthcare costs and increases individual and group well-being and self-sufficiency.