Leiden Science Young Talent Award
The Leiden Science Young Talent Award is awarded yearly to a student who completed their bachelor’s degree with an excellent thesis.
Dione Blok
Biopharmaceutical Sciences
Dione studied the energy metabolism of breast cancer cells of the triple-negative type, a very aggressive variant. Investigating an inhibitor of sugar breakdown (glycolysis), she found that cell growth decreased, as wel as the movement of cells. She used a special technology, that allowed her to monitor the cell cycl’ progression.
‘It was fascinating to see live how the cancer cells responded to the treatment.’
Read the full interview with Dione Blok.
Doğukan Yilmaz
Molecular Science and Technology
Doğukan focused on an important chemical process: the reaction of nitrogen on a ruthenium surface. Nitrogen molecules (N2) that come into contact with the metal ruthenium split into individual nitrogen atoms. To study this reaction, Doğukan used a method called density functional theory (DFT).
‘With this, you can simulate chemical processes at the atomic level using computer models. I developed new computational models that could very accurately predict how these nitrogen molecules behave and the energy required for the reaction to occur.’
Read the full interview with Dogukan.
Adriaan Janssen
Astronomy and Physics
Adriaan studied the gas surrounding the protostar BHR71, focusing on the shocks caused by its bipolar jets. Using data from the James Webb Space Telescope, he compared observed radiation with models to deduce properties like temperature and density. His findings revealed high temperatures and strong shocks, with lower gas densities than previously known in the literature.
‘What’s special about this project is that it brings together so many different topics.’
Read the full interview with Adriaan
Daan de Bos
Physics and Mathematics
Can you design super-smart materials with long-term memory that are capable of learning? That was the question physics bachelor’s student Daan de Bos set out to explore during his thesis research. Applying machine learning theories to materials presented several challenges, but his efforts led to a working theory that can now be tested on real materials in laboratories.
‘It was an incredible experience to stand before a group of scientists and explain my research.’
Read the full interview with Daan
The other nominees
Imke van Ooijen
Computer science
‘Imke developed high quality software implementing the researched optimisations, demonstrating her excellent software engineering and technical skills’ - Supervisor Todor Stefanov
Gijs van der Velden
Biology
‘Gijs has worked hard, meticulously, and critically, developed creative solutions, and conducted excellent statistical analyses. He is now collaborating with another student as co-first author on a paper about the results of their internship.’ - Supervisor Frietson Galis
Rebecca Jekel
Life Science & Technology
‘Rebecca chose a project that is exceptionally challenging for LST students, as it required advanced lab skills and a strong foundation in an unfamiliar area of chemistry. Despite this, she mastered the necessary skills flawlessly, demonstrating remarkable determination and an eagerness to learn.’ - Supervisor Kristina Djanashvili