Research Group Analytical Biosciences
Analytical Biosciences develops analytical-chemical methods and applies them to contribute to a better understanding of human health and the environment. We do this along three lines of research: Biomonitoring of environmental pollution, Organs-on-chips and Metabolomics. To achieve this, we develop sample preparation, GC-MS, and LC-MS methods. Our focus is continuously on analyzing small molecules (pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and/or metabolites) in complex biological and environmental samples.
Working Method
Analytical Biosciences is interdisciplinary oriented. Our researchers are PhD-level analytical chemists from various fields, including environmental chemistry, pharmaceutical analysis, and the food industry. They are skilled in translating research questions from collaborative partners into precise analytical parameters.
As a result, we provide them with the exact data needed for their research. This data is guaranteed by a highly experienced team of lab technicians working with our advanced instrumentation. Quality assurance is an integral part of our workflow.
Within this professional environment, we offer internships to supply the professional field with well-trained, critical-thinking technicians and analysts.
Impact
Through our research, we contribute to insights into human and environmental health. We do this through practice-based scientific research: actively sharing the knowledge gained and results from our projects, both within the scientific community and in public media.
We also create impact through our education: training passionate, skilled analysts for the workforce.
In addition, we are committed to democratizing science by making high-end analytical techniques accessible to citizen scientists. For example, in projects like Meet de Mees ("Measure the Titmouse"), we collaborate with citizens to analyze dead blue and great tits to gain insight into the distribution of pesticides.
Education
At Analytical Biosciences, students contribute to major societal challenges. You develop and use measurement methods on advanced equipment within an enthusiastic team of lecturer-researchers and lab technicians who teach you the trade. Quality assurance is embedded in everything our team does.
We offer internship positions for vocational (mbo) and higher professional education (hbo) students, hosting an average of three to five interns per year—mostly fourth-year Chemistry students completing their graduation thesis.
Our research forms the foundation from which we develop engaging educational programs. Our field touches not only on Chemistry, but also on Biology and Medical Laboratory Research, Bioinformatics, and Computer Science; lecturers from these programs are actively involved in our projects.
Our teaching ranges from guest lectures and project-based assignments to graduation internships. We have developed two minors: Organs-on-a-Chip and Metabolomics, and also contribute to the interdisciplinary minor Food, Health and Innovation. Additionally, we deliver guest lectures outside the university, such as at vocational schools, Leiden University, and the Analytical Sciences Talent Program.
Research Projects
Meet de Mees (Measure the Titmouse)
In 'Meet de Mees – the great tit as a biomonitoring tool for pesticide dispersal', we collect unhatched eggs and dead young great tits remaining after the breeding season using a citizen science approach.
Read more about 'Meet de Mees' (in Dutch).
NGID: Next Generation Immunodermatology
In the Netherlands, over 2.5 million patients suffer from chronic inflammatory skin diseases. Although not life-threatening, the personal impact and socio-economic costs of these chronic conditions are very high. The main challenge is that many treatments are not suited for every patient and often prove ineffective. (Lead partner: Leiden University).
Read more about NDIG (in Dutch).
Omics in de Polder (Completed)
The peat meadow area in the Netherlands is unique, but under pressure. The area is vital for agriculture, housing, nature, recreation, roads, and water storage. However, due to climate change, biodiversity loss, land subsidence, and housing demand, there is significant debate. We are exploring alternative spatial planning strategies to make agriculture more sustainable and integrate more nature into the region.
Our team
Professor of Applied Sciences
Peter Lindenburg leads the Analytical Biosciences research group. Through his research, he contributes to a deeper understanding of human and environmental health. "Everything is connected," he says. "A healthy living environment directly impacts human health." Together with his team, he utilizes advanced analytical chemistry methods to conduct research in this domain.
A healthy environment has a direct impact on human health. Everything is interconnected.
Lecturer-Researchers
- André van Roon – Lecturer-Researcher
- Sandra den Hoedt – Lecturer-Researcher
- Sonja Kaal – Lecturer-Researcher
- Cosette de Vries – Practical Lecturer
Partnering in Research? (Contract Research)
Analytical Biosciences translates your research query into a concrete analytical process and executes it. We excel at interdisciplinary collaboration and know which questions to ask to arrive at the right analytical method.
With our chromatography-mass spectrometry equipment (LC-QQQ-MS, LC-QTOF-MS, GC-MS, and automated sample preparation), we have extensive experience analyzing small molecules in complex samples. Wherever possible, we automate the process. From sample measurements to reporting: quality assurance is embedded in every step.
Even if you already have mass spectrometry equipment in-house, we can help. Many laboratories operate a mass spectrometer with only a single analyst carrying the expertise. We can support the broader implementation and quality assurance of your system.
In addition to running analyses, we provide consultancy on setting up your own analytical platform and offer lectures and training sessions to upskill your staff, for instance through our Centrum Bioscience en Diagnostiek (CBD).
Leiden Centra for Applied Bioscience
In the media
Analytical Biosciences regularly receives media coverage, particularly for the Meet de Mees project:
- Podcast, Focus op Wetenschap (NTR/NPO Luister, March 2026): 'Dead tits in the blender for pesticide research'
- Trouw (July 2025): 'What dead tits can tell us about pesticides'
- De Volkskrant (April 2025): 'A striking number of tits are dying in birdhouses. Do flea collars play a role?'
- Leidsch Dagblad (March 2025): Laboratory interview regarding Meet de Mees
Our network
Our team collaborates with organizations including the Centre for Environmental Sciences Leiden (CML), Vogelbescherming Nederland, mboRijnland, Hogeschool Utrecht, Mimetas, CHDR, TNO, LUMC, and Sovon.
Furthermore, within the Leiden Centre for Applied Bioscience (LCAB), we conduct interdisciplinary research alongside all other research groups.