League of European Research Universities 2022

The League of European Research Universities celebrated its 20th anniversary at Leiden University in May 2022. The anniversary was celebrated through a multi-day conference for 23 leading European research universities.  

The anniversary conference was focused on ‘the distinctive role of academic institutions to nurture resilient and sustainable societies.’ During the conference, leading European research universities exchanged ideas with representatives of governments and businesses. The conference featured lectures by Mariya Gabriel (European Commissioner for Research, Innovation, and Education) and Maria Leptin (ERC president), among others. 

According to Mirella Imthorn, organiser of this congress, the anniversary meeting of the LERU was a great success. "The anniversary celebration was a great success mainly because of the beautiful venues, the good care that was provided before and during the conference, and because the attendance was high and the presentations and discussions were inspiring. Also, LERU was a great networking opportunity for European research activities, representatives of governments and companies. 

The event participants enjoyed the Hortus botanicus, the Academy Building of Leiden University and the Stadsgehoorzaal, 3 great places in Leiden. The city was sunny and vibrant and guests were able to use the hotel facilities in Leiden. Leiden Convention Bureau put up beautiful flags throughout the city to welcome the guests. All in all, highly recommended!" 

Mirella Imthorn says she is proud of Leiden: she thinks Leiden is a city where there is always something to discover and believes this conference was a great achievement!