Social programme
LIMSC 2027 is about more than science. It is about meeting people from around the world, discovering new perspectives, building friendships, exploring the historic city of Leiden, and creating memories that last long after the conference has ended.
Alongside our scientific programme, we have put together an exciting range of social activities that will allow you to experience the beautiful city of Leiden, explore the world of medical innovation, and connect with fellow participants in a more informal setting. Our social programme brings together the best of Leiden, from its world-famous museums and innovative research environment to its lively student culture and unforgettable evenings. Whether you are looking to discover something new, expand your international network, or simply enjoy yourself, there is plenty to experience beyond the scientific sessions.
Make the most of your time in Leiden and discover everything LIMSC 2027 has to offer!
Naturalis Museum Tour
Wednesday, March 17 | 10:30–12:30
Discover the fascinating world of biodiversity, evolution, and natural history during a guided tour of Naturalis Biodiversity Center, the Netherlands' national research institute for biodiversity and one of Europe's leading natural history museums. Home to an extraordinary collection of fossils, specimens, and interactive exhibitions, Naturalis takes visitors on a journey through billions of years of life on Earth, revealing the remarkable diversity of species that have inhabited our planet.
One of the museum's greatest attractions is Trix, the spectacular Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton that has made Naturalis internationally famous. But there is much more to discover, from the mysteries of evolution and extinction to the intricate relationships between living organisms and their environments. During the guided tour, you will explore some of the museum's most fascinating exhibitions while gaining new insights into the natural world.
Whether you have a particular interest in biology or simply enjoy discovering something extraordinary, Naturalis offers an inspiring start to your time in Leiden. After all, how often do you get the chance to come face to face with a real T. rex?
Leiden Bio Science Park & LUMC Tour
Wednesday, March 17 | 13:30–17:30
Leiden is not only a beautiful historic university city, but also one of the Netherlands' most important centres for biomedical research, biotechnology, and medical innovation. During this special tour, you will have the opportunity to explore Leiden Bio Science Park and Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), discovering the exciting scientific environment in which researchers, healthcare professionals, and innovative companies work together to advance modern medicine.
Throughout the afternoon, participants will visit various locations and gain a behind-the-scenes perspective on the research and innovation taking place in Leiden. Discover how scientific discoveries move from the laboratory towards clinical applications, how new technologies are shaping healthcare, and how collaboration between universities, hospitals, and industry contributes to medical progress.
For students considering a future in medicine, biomedical research, or biotechnology, this is also an opportunity to explore different career paths and experience the environment in which scientific innovation takes place. Rather than simply hearing about medical breakthroughs during the conference, this tour allows you to discover the people, institutions, and ideas behind them.
Pubcrawl
Wednesday, March 17 | 19:00–23:00
Leiden is famous for its historic canals, picturesque streets, and vibrant student life, and there is no better way to experience its nightlife than together with your fellow LIMSC participants! Join us for a pubcrawl through the heart of the city, visiting some of Leiden's most popular bars while getting to know students and young researchers from across the globe.
The pubcrawl is the perfect opportunity to break the ice before the scientific programme gets into full swing. Throughout the evening, you will have plenty of opportunities to meet new people, share stories about your home countries and universities, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of one of the Netherlands' most charming student cities. Whether you arrive with a group of friends or are attending LIMSC on your own, you will find yourself surrounded by people who are just as eager to connect and have a great time.
Leave the conference preparations behind for a few hours and discover Leiden after dark. Who knows, some of the best connections you make during LIMSC might begin over a drink in one of Leiden's historic pubs!
LIMSC Evening
Thursday, March 18 | 18:00–23:00
Experience the charm of Leiden during an evening that brings together sightseeing, great food, and entertainment. We will begin with a boat tour through the city's beautiful historic canals, offering a unique perspective on Leiden's picturesque streets, centuries-old buildings, and charming bridges. As you discover the city from the water, there will be plenty of opportunities to get to know other LIMSC participants in a relaxed and informal setting.
After the boat tour, we will make our way to De Leidse Lente, one of Leiden's most creative and atmospheric venues, where a lovely dinner awaits. Enjoy a meal together, catch up with friends, and get to know new faces before the entertainment begins. Put your knowledge to the test during our lively pub quiz, where you can team up with other participants for some friendly competition. The evening will also feature a stand-up comedy performance, providing plenty of opportunities for laughter and a memorable end to the night.
From exploring Leiden's canals to sharing dinner and discovering who among your new friends is the ultimate pub quiz champion, the LIMSC Evening promises a wonderful combination of good food, entertainment, and great company!
Black Tie Dinner
Friday, March 19 | 20:00–01:00
Imagine spending an elegant evening surrounded by thousands of years of history, enjoying a wonderful dinner in the company of students and researchers from around the world. This year, the LIMSC Black Tie Dinner will take place at the magnificent Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities, located in the historic heart of Leiden. Home to remarkable collections from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and beyond, this extraordinary museum provides a truly unique setting for one of the most anticipated evenings of the conference.
The Black Tie Dinner is an opportunity to exchange your everyday conference attire for something more elegant and enjoy a special evening away from the lecture halls. Surrounded by the museum's impressive historic atmosphere, participants will come together for a festive dining experience, accompanied by engaging conversations and the company of fellow students, researchers, and guests. It is the perfect occasion to strengthen the connections you have made throughout the conference, meet new people, and celebrate the shared passion for science that brings everyone to Leiden.
Whether you are attending LIMSC for the first time or returning for another edition, the Black Tie Dinner is an experience you will not want to miss. There are not many opportunities to dress up for an evening of fine dining in a national museum, let alone share that experience with new friends from across the world.
Closing Party
Saturday, March 20 | 22:00–04:00
After four days of inspiring presentations, fascinating discussions, new friendships, and memorable experiences, LIMSC 2027 deserves a proper celebration! The Closing Party marks the grand finale of the conference, bringing participants together one last time for an exciting night of music, dancing, and celebration.
Throughout the conference, you will have met people from different countries, exchanged ideas with fellow researchers, discovered new perspectives, and hopefully made friendships that will last long after you return home. The Closing Party is your opportunity to celebrate these experiences together, reunite with the people you have met throughout the week, and enjoy the final hours of LIMSC without having to think about your next presentation or scientific session.
Whether you have spent the week presenting your research, exploring Leiden, or simply enjoying the international atmosphere, this is the moment to come together and end the conference on a high note. Make the most of your last night in Leiden, because saying goodbye to LIMSC is always easier after one final party!
