Admission and selection

Every year, the Young Academy Leiden looks for new members. We alternate between an open vacancy, to which candidates can apply, and nomination by the Faculty Boards and the Executive Board of LUMC.

Why join YAL?

Join us at Young Academy Leiden (YAL) where early-career researchers drive interdisciplinary initiatives, enhance outreach, and shape policies in academia and beyond. YAL welcomes applications from all faculties, especially encouraging those from underrepresented groups to contribute to our diverse and dynamic community.

By joining the YAL you'll have the opportunity to shape discussions in academia and society. You'll collaborate with motivated peers from diverse disciplines, contributing to innovation both within and outside the university.

Who we're looking for:

Every year, YAL selects new members from Leiden University and LUMC staff within 8 years of receiving their PhD (aligning with NWO's extension clause). YAL seeks passionate early career academics interested in research, teaching, and broader societal issues such as policy, outreach, and interdisciplinarity. Members contribute approximately four hours weekly to YAL activities. Membership, lasting five years, leads to becoming YAL alumni.

Application process 2024

In 2024, selection goes through the Faculty Boards of the university and the Executive Board of LUMC, each of them will nominate at least two candidates. So, if you are interested, please contact your faculty board. Deadline for selection by the deans is April 22. 

For a nomination, the boards should submit the following to the YAL Project Manager, Suzanne Brinkman, at s.brinkman@bb.leidenuniv.nl:

• A declaration letter from your department head or institute manager. You can find the template for the letter of declaration YAL Nomination 2024 here. 
• A motivation letter (max 500 words) outlining your interests in outreach, interdisciplinarity, or policy and how you wish to contribute to YAL’s mission.
• Your Curriculum Vitae (CV), not exceeding two pages and emphasizing commitment to YAL's interdisciplinary and societal engagement goals.

 For the final selection we will have a committee, including a board member, interviewing candidates on Thursday, May 16th. We aim for diverse representation across faculties and a balance in our focus areas. Members commit around four hours weekly to YAL activities, with departmental support for their time.

If you have any further questions, please send us an email at youngacademy@bb.leidenuniv.nl.