From the smallest particles to the entire universe: Leiden University conducts groundbreaking research on discovering new worlds and the revolutionary technologies that make that research possible. When it comes to understanding the quantum world – the tiniest particles that make up our world – Leiden is at the forefront of research and teaching. We are researching the qubit: part of the quantum computer. This computer can perform calculations at an inconceivable rate compared with ‘classic’ computers, and could lead to breakthroughs in many academic disciplines, such as discovering new medicines and materials.

We are also one of the world’s leading institutes conducting research and teaching about the formation and evolution of the universe, and the development of planets outside our solar system. Leiden helps build the most advanced observation instruments in the world, such as the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) and the already active James Webb Space Telescope.

These are just some of the reasons why Leiden has long been a leading institution in developing ultra-precise instruments capable of making observations under extreme conditions, such as intense cold or heat. The underlying technology is often rooted in quantum mechanics and is frequently applied beyond research – for example, in semiconductors, aerospace, agriculture, energy systems and medical devices.