Leiden PhD Association

LEO aims to provide a platform for PhD candidates at Leiden University. We organize social events, represent PhD-specific interests, and maintain contact with other PhD organizations.

About ten years ago the PhD students of Leiden University first organized themselves in an interest group: the "Leids Promovendi Overleg" (LEO, don't ask about the acronym...). Today, we, as LEO, still make sure that the opinions of PhD students are heard throughout the University; and this accounts for anyone who is writing a PhD thesis at Leiden University, regardless of his or her official position or employment.

LEO can influence decision making at the University through its presence in the University Council and through meetings held regularly with the Rector Magnificus. By working together with the PhD Network Netherlands (PNN) we even have a nationwide influence, for example through contacts with the Association of Dutch Universities (VSNU) and the Ministry of Education.

What can LEO do for you?

LEO wants to make sure that PhD students get the information they need. This information may be about rights and duties, but also about such questions as how to find a good printer. Twice a year we send each PhD student who joins LEO our periodical called Thesis. Up-to-date information is posted regularly on this website.

It is LEO's belief that most PhD students want to do more than just research during their time in Leiden. Particularly foreign PhD students may be interested in our social activities, but even for "locals" it can be enjoyable to meet fellow PhD students from other fields. To this end, LEO organizes a monthly "borrel" called PhDrinks, where you can meet fellow PhD students and get some inside hints on living and working in Leiden.