An interview with Esther Peters

How Leiden Bio Science Park Strengthens the Life Sciences Sector Globally

The Netherlands is home to several science parks, but what really happens in these areas? They’re often not just clusters of companies but true communities where knowledge, innovation, and collaboration come together. The Leiden Bio Science Park (LBSP) is a shining example. Not only is it the largest Life Sciences cluster in the Netherlands, but it also ranks among the top five in Europa and the top ten globally. With nearly 500 organizations – including startups, scale-ups, and major corporations like Johnson & Johnson and Bristol Myers Squibb – it plays a pivotal role in driving innovation in health and technology. We spoke with Esther Peters, director of the Leiden Bio Science Park Foundation, and the power of this unique ecosystem and its impact on society.

Innovations that improve lives

As the director of Leiden Bio Science Park, Esther Peters is deeply involved in the park’s dynamic environment. What stands out most to her? “The sheer scale of innovations happening here in Life Sciences and health,” she explains. “From prevention to advanced stem cell and gene therapies, it’s all being developed here. I find it remarkable because we are working every day to extend and improve lives.”

The park is a collection of organizations and institutions spanning all levels – from vocational schools and universities of applied sciences to research institutions and startups. This ecosystem ensures that ideas quickly evolve into groundbreaking innovations with a global impact.

A ecosystem built on collaboration

According to Peters, the park’s strength lies in its unique partnerships. “With over 22,000 professionals and 21,000 students, there’s an incredible wealth of knowledge and expertise. Large companies, startups, and educational institutions work closely together, as do the municipality, LUMC, mbo Rijnland, and TNO. This culture of collaboration makes us unique,” she says.

The park’s location is another key advantage: “We’re situated right next to Leiden station and just 20 minutes from Schiphol Airport. This makes us ideal for international connections and collaborations.” The park’s global focus is essential to its success. “We work with international partners to accelerate innovation and respond quickly to new scientific challenges. This makes our park a fertile ground for startups and scale-ups.”

The future of LBSP: talent and technology

Talent is critical to the park’s growth. “We focus on attracting diverse, highly skilled talent from around the world,” Peters explains. “We do this by collaborating with educational institutions and facilitating programs that emphasize technical skills, entrepreneurship, and innovation.” Looking ahead, Peters sees great potential: “We aim to continue evolving as an innovation hub, with a strong focus on digital health and healthy aging. By further integrating data, AI, and robotics into Life Sciences, we want to remain a leader in the field.”

The Leiden Bio Science Park is not just a place where groundbreaking innovations are developed; it’s also a community where talent, science, and entrepreneurship converge. “Our vision is to keep enriching society with solutions that improve lives,” Peters concludes.