Popular science events
Leiden University participates in and organises a number of popular science events to help inform the public about what is going on in the world of science.
Nacht van ontdekkingen
The Nacht van Ontdekkingen, formerly Night of Arts & Science, has been the annual science and culture festival in Zuid-Holland since 2013. The historical centre of Leiden morphs into a stage for artists, actors, dancers, musicians, opinion makers and academics. Thousands of visitors can choose from over 150 acts, often at locations that are not usually accessible, such as the Oude Sterrewacht. Young and old are welcome at this wonderful evening.
Through the Nacht, we show that we need artists and scientists to help us understand the world. They hold a mirror up to us or open doors that are usually firmly closed. The Nacht tells us something about the relationship between past, present and future, and gets us thinking about the important issues of our times.
If you want to contribute, please contact the scientific communication adviser for information or visit the website.
3 October University
Had enough of all that beer, herring and white bread on 3 October? Then come to the tent in the Van der Werfpark to watch impassioned Leiden academics give interesting and topical lectures for all.
Want to have a go yourself? Contact the scientific communication adviser.
Famelab
Since its inception at the Cheltenham Science Festival in 2005, Famelab has developed into the most important science communication competition in the world. The British Council has been co-organiser since 2007. More than 5,000 scientists and engineers from more than 25 countries enter. Each year, Leiden holds its own qualifying round for young passionate scientists. The winners go through to the national and maybe even the international rounds.
If you want to enter, please contact the scientific communication adviser or take a look at the Famelab website.