Research Profile

We are working towards a better world. We do this by researching complex issues beyond the borders of disciplines.

Four strategic research themes

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  Dynamics of Youth

  How can we help our children to develop into well-balanced individuals in a rapidly changing society?

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  Institutions for Open Societies

  How do institutions – the formal and informal rules of human action – contribute to long-term prosperity, equality and democracy?

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  Life Sciences

  How can we drive innovations in human, veterinary and plant health and resilience with careful consideration of our environment?

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  Pathways to sustainability

  How can we enable the transition towards a more sustainable society? 

Focus areas

The Utrecht focus areas link fundamental research to a social mission. They are testing grounds in which we focus on a theme, take new paths and enter into new partnerships.

Top research on a wide range of areas

Global issues are complex: they are not limited to generations or continents and cannot be solved from one single perspective.

Quality and integrity

Utrecht University stands for professional and high-quality academic work and ethically responsible research and teaching.