Biotechnology in Leiden: Faculty-Led Study Abroad
July 17, 2025
This summer, the Webster Leiden campus, in partnership with the Office of Study Abroad, proudly supported the faculty-led program “Biotechnology in Leiden.”
Studying Biotechnology in the Netherlands couldn’t be more fitting — the country is considered by many as a global research and innovation leader.
Under the guidance of Biology professor Mary Lai Preuss, students delved into primary research articles spotlighting some of the most advanced biotech studies underway today. They honed their skills by analyzing complex methodologies and interpreting data, while also sharpening their scientific communication abilities — essential tools for any aspiring scientist.
But the learning didn’t stop in the classroom. The program offered immersive site visits to some of the most dynamic research and innovation hubs in the region. At the bustling Leiden Bio Science Park, students explored the BioPartner5 site, where innovative biotech startups are shaping the future. In Amsterdam, they engaged directly with professionals at the University Medical Center who are engaged in Alzheimer’s research and developing promising biomarkers.
The journey continued in The Hague at Infinite Acres, where students witnessed the future of farming through indoor vertical agriculture, blending technology and sustainability. Additional excursions included the Boerhaave Museum of the History of Science and the BlueCity project in Rotterdam, providing students with valuable perspectives on the evolution of scientific thought and contemporary approaches to sustainable living.
Together, these experiences gave students a firsthand look at how scientific research translates into real-world solutions — all while immersing them in Dutch culture and history. The “Biotechnology in Leiden” program not only deepened participants’ understanding of science, but inspired them with the global impact of biotech innovation.
Explore more unique summer programs like this through our Thematic Summer Courses at Webster Leiden Campus.