Science Café: Humans, microbes, and the environment
Contact
Scheltema Leiden
Marktsteeg 1
2312 CS Leiden Plan your route to Science Café: Humans, microbes, and the environment
Science Café Leiden is an evening where scientific topics are discussed in a relaxed, informal atmosphere over a drink. Each session focuses on a different topic. This time, the topic is ‘Humans, microbes and the environment: A centuries-old partnership under the microscope.’
In this edition of the Science Café, you will explore the ‘old friends hypothesis’ with Professor Hermelijn Smits, an expert in immunology and biology at Leiden University. This is the belief that our immune system has evolved to utilise certain microorganisms to remain functional and in balance. The other hypothesis to be discussed is the Finnish ‘biodiversity hypothesis’, which links high societal biodiversity in society to fewer allergies.
Our immune system is constantly evolving to adapt to the world around us. Scientists have therefore observed a possible link between environmental changes and increases in allergies and other immune-related conditions. Come and discover how the biodiversity of our environment shapes the immune system, and why these insights are important for our health.
Every edition of the …
In this edition of the Science Café, you will explore the ‘old friends hypothesis’ with Professor Hermelijn Smits, an expert in immunology and biology at Leiden University. This is the belief that our immune system has evolved to utilise certain microorganisms to remain functional and in balance. The other hypothesis to be discussed is the Finnish ‘biodiversity hypothesis’, which links high societal biodiversity in society to fewer allergies.
Our immune system is constantly evolving to adapt to the world around us. Scientists have therefore observed a possible link between environmental changes and increases in allergies and other immune-related conditions. Come and discover how the biodiversity of our environment shapes the immune system, and why these insights are important for our health.
Every edition of the Science Café features live music, providing a platform for up-and-coming musical talent and enhancing the evening’s informal, welcoming atmosphere. This time, rock ’n’ roll singer-songwriter Beechcraft Bonanza (Guido Kreeuseler) from Almere will perform original songs and covers inspired by 1950s rockabilly, blues, pop and country.
Admission is free, and the lecture will be held in Dutch.
When
- Tuesday the 12th of may 2026 from 19:40 to 22:00