Minister Fleur Agema visits Leiden Bio Science Park to explore Life Sciences innovation

Leiden Bio Science Park was proud to welcome Minister Fleur Agema for a visit organized by the Vereniging Innovatieve Geneesmiddelen. The tour highlighted how research, industry, and education come together in a unique ecosystem that powers life sciences innovation in the Netherlands.

The visit began at Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, where the team showcased their lab-to-life model, from discovery to biologics production, emphasizing the global impact and local responsibility of Dutch biotech. Key challenges discussed included drug affordability, talent development, and patient access.

Led by Leiden Bio Science Park Director Esther Peters, the group cycled through the park to see how early research and industry collaborate closely. Stops included:

• Leiden University, where LACDR, LIACS, and BioPartner support breakthroughs in pharmacology, AI, and quantum innovation

• Leidse instrumentmakers School, highlighting the essential role of technical talent in medtech and instrumentation

• Galapagos, where CAR T cell therapies are being developed at scale

• Bristol Myers Squibb, where the upcoming CAR-T manufacturing site will serve patients across Europe

Our message to the Minister was clear: if the Netherlands wants to lead in life sciences, it must invest in strong, collaborative ecosystems like LBSP. We thank Minister Agema for her visit and welcome continued cooperation to shape the future of health.