Inaugural Lecture dr. Astrid Heikema

The language of this event is Dutch 

Leiden University of Applied Sciences cordially invites you to the inaugural lecture of Astrid Heikema on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Leiden University of Applied Sciences, room F0.017.

Astrid Heikema is Professor of the Microbial Genomics research group, part of the Faculty of Science & Technology. The research group is part of the Leiden Centre for Applied Bioscience (LCAB), where practice-oriented research is conducted in the fields of Biodiversity & Health and Safety.

Programme:
14:00–14:30 Reception
14:30–14:40 Welcome by Joeri van den Steenhoven, member of the Executive Board
14:40–14:50 Welcome by Eric Veldkamp, Dean of the Faculty of S&T
14:50–15:35 Inaugural lecture by Astrid Heikema
15:35–15:45 Closing remarks by Joeri van den Steenhoven, member of the Executive Board
15:45–17:30 Reception

Microbial Genomics for accessible and sustainable innovations
In her lecture, Astrid will discuss the role of DNA technology in tracing both harmful and beneficial microorganisms. Using DNA sequencing and advanced analyses, the kinship, diversity, and functional properties of microorganisms are mapped.

Within the research group, studies include pathogens in the food industry, where DNA technology is made accessible for food processing companies and knowledge gaps are bridged. In a recently awarded project, the focus is on discovering bacterial and fungal strains with relevant properties for sustainable applications in food production, food preservation, probiotics, and biological crop protection.

A key objective of the research group is to ensure impact on both industry and education. Innovative technologies and analytical methods are further developed and applied for companies with research questions, and integrated to renew the life sciences curricula at Leiden University of Applied Sciences.

Moderator: Danny Dukers, Director of the Leiden Centre for Applied Bioscience

Registration:
We would be delighted if you could attend this event and kindly ask you to register for the lecture (via the button below).

Kind regards,
Angelien Sanderman and Joeri van den Steenhoven
Executive Board, Leiden University of Applied Sciences