Chemistry (MSc)
Why Leiden University?
The Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) offers a unique tailor-made programme in Chemistry. You can customize the programme to your own interests and ambitions with the help of your own personal mentor. Your study will focus on either Chemical Biology or Energy & Sustainability. During the Master's you will be part of one of the multidisciplinary research teams in the LIC.
Research in Energy & Sustainability
Energy & Sustainability (E&S) researchers focus on a fundamental level on chemical reactions important for the sustainable and efficient production and storage of energy. They also look at ways to reuse the stored energy at a later point in time. To this end, our researchers apply advanced spectroscopic techniques, nano-imaging, inorganic synthesis, theoretical methods and homogeneous, heterogeneous, photochemical or electrochemical catalysis to elucidate the molecular processes underlying conversion of solar energy into chemical energy.
Research in Chemical Biology
Within the Chemical Biology (CB) theme, researchers take a chemical approach seeking solutions to biological issues, such as the study of the biological processes behind diseases. The researchers strive for a better molecular understanding of the biological processes leading to hereditary disorders or neurodegenerative diseases. Our chemists collaborate with researchers at LUMC and other institutes within the Faculty of Science, such as the LACDR.
LIC's expertise attracts the attention of drug development companies, which are particularly interested in the methods developed by LIC researchers to study biological processes in disease and in health, including in the presence of potential drugs. With this knowledge they hope to accelerate the drug-development process, as well as develop new, specific diagnostic methods.
Access to top research facilities
The Leiden Institute of Chemistry has access to a number of key facilities that enable our research groups, and thus students, to carry out their innovative research. LIC researchers have access to a Cell Observatory with various (electron) microscopes, an NMR Facility with seven spectrometers ranging from 300 to 850 MHz and options for paramagnetic or solid-state NMR, a crystallisation facility (Crystal Cave) with instruments to perform high-throughput crystallisation screening in 96-well format, and peptide synthesisers. Read more about the facilities
Faculty of Science
The Leiden University Faculty of Science is a first-class research faculty with an excellent position in the fundamental disciplines of science. The current research and education programmes cover the entire spectrum of science, including Mathematics, Statistics and Data Science, Computer Science, Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biology, and Environmental Sciences. Our science community is driven by their curiosity and desire to increase basic knowledge for science and to contribute to the great societal challenges of today and tomorrow. Our core values are scientific impact, technological innovation and societal relevance.
Study at a world-class university
Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and enjoys an excellent worldwide reputation built up over more than four centuries. Since 1575 we’ve provided sound personal education for hundreds of thousands of students. We’ll do our utmost to give you the best possible support. And if you can and want to do more, we’ll challenge you every step of the way. For many years, we’ve been among the leaders in Dutch university rankings and we are currently to be found in a variety of top international rankings too.
More reasons to choose Leiden University
The Chemistry and Education master specialisation gives you the opportunity to combine fundamental chemistry studies with an excellent education in becoming a Chemistry teacher.
The Leiden University Graduate School of Teaching (ICLON) connects theory and practice of teaching through the application of academic knowledge to issues of classroom practice. Also, issues of practice form the starting point for research in, and development of, secondary education. ICLON has close collaboration with secondary schools within the area where your practical experience is gained. You receive one-on-one guidance but you will also meet with colleagues from different disciplines, each with their own knowledge and experience. This provides you with a broad view on education.
For more information please visit the ICLON website.
The Chemistry and SCS master specialisation gives you the opportunity to combine a fundamental Chemistry study with different aspects of science communication.
Within the institute we study and teach science communication. Our research programme is aimed at improving science communication with the central themes ‘Authenticity in informal learning’ and ‘Bridging the gap between experts and the general public’. Our master’s specialisation enables you to bring together your field of science and society.
For more information please visit the SCS website.
Combine fundamental Chemistry research with different aspects of business studies. Learn to build bridges between science and business.
The Business Studies specialisation is the management track. We offer you small-scale, interactive teaching that is analytically rigorous and connected to management practice.
The Management track is for students who consider employment opportunities in industry, and who are looking to acquire knowledge of business principles and training in managerial skills. The track provides an introduction to general management theory and practice.