Leiden's Innovative Projects Gain NWO Perspectief Approval
Leiden, Monday, 1 December 2025.
Four consortia from Leiden have secured approval to start research projects under the NWO Perspectief program, focusing on technological innovations with significant societal and economic impacts.
Introduction to the NWO Perspectief Program
The NWO Perspectief program is a significant initiative in the Netherlands designed to stimulate technological innovations with substantial societal and economic impacts. This program is funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO), which has allocated a total of 46.4 million euros across twelve projects. These projects also receive an additional 19.6 million euros from companies and other partners, highlighting the importance of public-private collaborations in advancing technological research [1].
Leiden’s Role and Contributions
Leiden University is at the forefront of this initiative with four consortia being approved to embark on their research endeavors. These projects focus on developing cutting-edge technological solutions aimed at addressing critical societal challenges. The involvement of Leiden underscores the institution’s commitment to driving innovation and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations [1][2].
Spotlight on Key Projects
Among the projects featuring contributions from Leiden researchers, notable ones include ‘Improvement of Lighting and Optics,’ led by Thomas Bäck and colleagues from LIACS, and ‘Sharp Vision on the Smallest Structures,’ spearheaded by Joost Batenburg. Other projects such as ‘Future-Proof Freezers,’ led by Tjerk Oosterkamp, and ‘Predicting Treatment Efficacy in the Blood,’ by Thomas Hankemeier, reflect the diverse and impactful nature of research being conducted under the program [1].
Impact and Future Prospects
The projects supported by the NWO Perspectief program are expected not only to advance scientific knowledge but also to create new economic opportunities and enhance technological capabilities within the Netherlands. By fostering strong partnerships between academia, industry, and social organizations, the program sets a precedent for how collaborative efforts can yield transformative outcomes in technology and beyond [2][3].