Discoveries at Leiden Science

From the largest numbers to the smallest molecules and from the oldest galaxies up to the latest algorithms, explore our standout discoveries and most inspiring collaborations from the past year!

‘Largest Dutch optical astronomy project ever’ (STRW)

Groundbreaking research into the origins of our solar system and supermassive black holes will soon be possible with the METIS instrument for the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). Leiden Observatory plays a crucial role in its design and development. METIS is the first ELT instrument to pass the final design review. As part of the NOVA consortium, Leiden will help assemble and test the instrument ahead of its 2028 deployment in Chile.

Will this discovery help us develop better catalysts? (LIC)

‘This story showcases how a dedicated collaborations can lead to unique insights.’

Where exactly on the surface of a catalyst do the chemical reactions occur? Until now, it has always been a challenge to identify the exact locations of these ‘active sites’. In a new article in Nature, Leiden chemists helped their international colleagues reveal new insights into this issue. Their results open the door to more efficient catalysts for, for example, fuel cells.

3D-printed mini-tumours: a leap forward in improving cancer immunotherapy (LACDR)

Leiden researchers have developed a groundbreaking model to advance cancer immunotherapy. Using a 3D printer, they create mini-tumours within an environment that closely mimics human tissue. They have also developed a method to monitor real-time interactions of these mini-tumours with immune cells during tests.

Leiden researchers predict seller success on dark web markets (LIACS)

Researchers from the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Sciences and Leiden Law have developed a method to predict which sellers will be successful in illegal online marketplaces. This could help the police track down big players on the dark web, the hidden part of the internet.

Three quantum-safe cryptography methods standardised for global use (MI)

What started as a competition, has now led to new global cryptography standards set to transform digital security: mathematician Léo Ducas co-designed two of those methods. CRYSTALS-Kyber and CRYSTALS-Dilithium will help secure our digital lives against the rise of quantum computers. Ducas: ‘Our scheme will be deployed globally, protecting the privacy of billions of users.’

‘A publication in Science translational medicine often indicates an experimental drug has clinical potential.’

Powerful new Leiden ‘super antibiotic may overcome resistance (IBL)’

Researchers at Leiden’s Institute of Biology have developed a powerful new antibiotic, EVG7, to combat resistant bacteria. This next-generation vancomycin is more effective with fewer side effects, offering new hope for patients with life-threatening infections caused by antibiotic-resistant superbugs. Professor Nathaniel Martin is already considering ways to bring the new antibiotic to market.

What DNA in droppings can reveal about an animal’s diet (CML)

Imagine scanning lion dung or a mouse dropping and instantly knowing exactly what and how much the animal has eaten. Thanks to new DNA techniques, this is becoming increasingly feasible. PhD student Kevin Groen tested how effective these techniques are at unraveling the diets of wild animals.

A first in the lab: a tiny network that is both strong and flexible (LION)

Creating a network of microparticles that is both strong and completely flexible. This may sound simple, yet the physicists from the Kraft lab were the first in the world to succeed. A real breakthrough in soft matter physics. The research helps us understand how tiny, flexible networks work, opening doors to new materials and microrobots for medical use.