Strengthening Strategic Collaboration through Una Europa
Leiden University is a member of Una Europa, an alliance of 11 leading research-intensive European universities. More than 500,000 students and 100,000 staff are represented. Since 2019, the alliance has worked towards a connected European campus by strengthening collaboration in education, research, innovation, and societal engagement.
Through its 2030 Strategy, Una Europa promotes interdisciplinary cooperation, mobility and lifelong learning. Its six Focus Areas reflect pressing global and societal challenges. The alliance connects academia with policymakers, industry and society to develop the knowledge, skills and networks needed for the Netherlands’ future competitiveness and resilience.
Una Europa advances interdisciplinary collaboration in research and education across Europe. Through the alliance, Leiden University connects researchers, teachers, students and staff with international partners, industry and public organisations to exchange expertise, build networks, and develop innovative approaches to societal challenges. This open and collaborative environment strengthens the Dutch research and innovation ecosystem.
Joanne van der Leun, Academic Lead International Affairs, Una Europa Board of Directors Chair 'Una Europa gives Leiden University the opportunity to build stronger international connections, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and create lasting societal impact across Europe.'
With targeted programmes and funding, Una Europa supports researchers to develop skills relevant both within and beyond academia – especially early-career researchers. Its interdisciplinary summer schools, doctoral and methods training, workshops, seed funding calls and mobility schemes also help to accelerate knowledge exchange and innovation across disciplines and sectors.
A flagship example is the interdisciplinary doctoral training programme. It brings PhD candidates together with supervisors, senior academics, policymakers, industry representatives and publishers from 11 European countries. This prepares participants for careers requiring cross-sector collaboration.
The alliance also cements long-term research capacity. It builds robust networks among its researchers and research support infrastructure, creating fertile ground for joint funding success.
In education, Una Europa promotes challenge-based, interdisciplinary learning. Students work on real-world problems while studying in multiple countries, gaining academic, cultural and professional expertise. Initiatives such as the Project Incubator, Student Congress and Student Board further develop their skills and engagement.
More info: https://www.una-europa.eu/
