The Institute of Biology Leiden (IBL) is an internationally oriented institute for research and education in biology.

We perform top quality innovative fundamental and strategic research that will lead to scientific progress, contribute to solutions for societal challenges, and generate industrial opportunities.

Our research focusses on four research themes:

Bioactive Molecules

We study, discover and develop novel bioactive compounds obtained from  biodiversity.

All living systems are assembled from nature’s repertoire of small, medium, and large organic molecules. The Bioactive Molecules research theme focuses on the study, discovery and development of novel bioactive compounds obtained from biodiversity. We aim for new insights into the role of these molecules in the natural environment, and how they affect the complex biological processes relevant to health and disease.

Development & Disease

We study how stresses challenge and affect development in order to improve health.

Living systems scale from unicellular microbes to complex multispecies communities that constantly change over time. Within the theme Development & Disease, we enhance our fundamental understanding of development and homeostasis of living cells and systems. We analyze the normal situation and how stresses can challenge development and homeostasis, leading either to adaptive alterations, or to disease and death. We harness this knowledge to improve the health of living systems worldwide.

Biodiversity & Evolution

We study how evolutionary and ecological interactions affect genetic and phenotypic diversity.

Evolutionary and ecological interactions affect species on genetic and phenotypic levels. The Biodiversity & Evolution research theme aims to understand these processes at multiple levels: from molecules to genomes to populations and to communities. Our research focuses on evolutionary responses to anthropogenic change, the role of phenotypic plasticity, coevolution, and the mechanisms of adaptive changes. We therefore seek to develop an integrated understanding of how life on Earth evolves.

Host-Microbe Interactions

We study microbial interactions and empower humans, animals and plants against disease and pests.

Microbes influence and respond to other organisms. The Host-Microbe Interactions research theme explores the dynamic relationships within plant and animal microbiomes, and the immune responses that govern host defense. Using model systems such as zebrafish, insects, and plants, we investigate fundamental processes and engineer microbes and microbiomes to support sustainable health and resilience across species.