Leiden Bio Science Park recently welcomed a high-level delegation from the European Commission during a visit to Johnson & Johnson, organised by Amoy Anderson, and the team.
The visit centred on the impact of international trade on the Life Sciences and Health sectors, both in the Netherlands and the wider EU. The morning began with a welcome by Wietske Veltman, Alderman for Economy, Knowledge, Health, and Sports for the Municipality of Leiden, followed by a presentation from Esther Peters, Director of Leiden Bio Science Park.
Key speakers included Anneke Sanders (Bristol Myers Squibb), Jan de Sonneville (Life Science Methods), Anouk De Vroey (Johnson & Johnson), and Professor Thomas Hankemeier (Leiden University), who emphasised the Park’s strong academic and translational capabilities.
In the afternoon, Rob van Overbeek from Kadans Science Partner led a tour introducing the delegation to three innovative companies: LeydenJar (battery innovation), Meatable (sustainable food production), and VarmX (therapies for bleeding disorders).
The visit highlighted the Park’s role in fostering innovation and international collaboration, reinforcing its mission to support science that serves society.
The Court of Audit visited LBSP to explore how science and entrepreneurship create public value, with stops at TNO, Peregrion, NTrans, and VarmX sparking discussion on biotech innovation.
Leiden University is studying emotions at Lowlands Festival through two projects: a haunted house that measures how people cope with fear, and a silent performance exploring nonverbal communication.
LUMC and Stichting DON have launched Cure One, a new research center focused on accelerating curative therapies for type 1 diabetes through stem cell technology and immune-based treatments.