How can we ensure that scientific discoveries genuinely develop into new medicines and treatments? And how can we prepare students and early-career researchers for a drug discovery  and development process in which an increasing number of disciplines, fields of expertise and societal perspectives come together?

The interfaculty theme 'Drug Discovery and Development' addresses these questions. The development of new therapies and their applications do not emerge within a single discipline. They require collaboration between fundamental and translational researchers, clinicians, behavioural and social scientists, and experts in areas such as regulation, ethics, implementation, patient engagement and access to healthcare.

Leiden is particularly well positioned for this. Across Leiden University, Leiden University Medical Center and the Leiden Bio Science Park, expertise spans the entire development pathway: from identifying new therapeutic targets and drug candidates to preclinical and clinical research, manufacturing, regulatory assessment and implementation in practice. Leiden also has extensive expertise in the ethical, societal and behavioural questions surrounding new treatments.

The Drug Discovery and Development theme brings together staff, knowledge, facilities, education and existing initiatives more effectively. It gives colleagues a clear entry point for finding relevant expertise, meeting potential partners and developing joint research or educational initiatives.

In the short term, we are building a visible and active interfaculty community. We will map existing expertise, infrastructure, education programmes, training opportunities and networks, organise meetings across disciplines and make opportunities for collaboration easier to find. We will also explore how existing education and training in drug development can be better aligned.

In the longer term, we aim to position Leiden nationally and internationally as a strong and connected ecosystem for responsible therapeutic innovation. This should result in new interfaculty consortia, joint research and educational projects, and stronger relationships with partners within and beyond the Leiden Bio Science Park.

The theme is led by the Faculty of Science, Leiden University Medical Center and the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, and welcomes contributions from across the university.

Are you involved in relevant research, education, technology, infrastructure, data, regulation, implementation or support? Join us and let us know what knowledge, activities, collaboration needs or ideas you would like to contribute.