'We can uncover new, non-pharmacological strategies to help individuals, especially those struggling with weight loss', reveals psychologist Aleksandrina Skvortsova about her LUF grant for the project 'Mind Over Meal'. We spoke to Dr. Skvortsova and asked her three questions about her research.

Dr Anouk Goemans has been appointed professor by special appointment of Youth Services and Child Protection from an Educational and Legal Perspective as of 1 November 2024. This chair is funded by the 'Stichting Steunfonds Pro Juventute' support fund foundation and serves as a bridge between the Department of Child Law and Health Law and the Institute of Education and Child Studies.

What kind of information is actually being shared? Alongside traditional media channels such as TV and newspapers, the rise of social media has made it incredibly quick and easy to inform the public. Do we have a clear enough picture of the spread of disinformation? And what are the underlying motives of people who believe fake news?

The complex societal issues of our time rarely fit seamlessly within the boundaries of a single field of study or specialization. When seeking solutions to these challenges, it is crucial for scientists to engage in dialogue across the borders of their own domain and discipline.

The Leiden University Thesis Prizes were awarded on Alumni Day on 15 February. The nominees came with their family and friends to the Kamerlingh Onnes Building for the award ceremony for these annual prizes for the best theses.

‘What is the best electoral system for a democracy? First prize in the Leiden University Thesis Prizes 2021 goes to someone who has added their own deftly argued vision to this socially relevant topic.’ These were the words of Annetje Ottow, president of the Executive Board and board member of the Leiden University Fund, at the online University Thesis Prizes ceremony on 3 March. The lucky winner, Suzanne Bloks, studied philosophy.

In its operations, the LUF is assisted by various committees.

Assistant Professor Maarten Schrama works at Leiden University’s living labs, where biology, environmental sciences and knowledge about agriculture and policy come together. We met him at the new Polderlab to ask him about his research.