LERU is an association of leading European research-intensive universities that share the values of high-quality teaching within an environment of internationally competitive research.

LERU’s primary aim is to demonstrate to national and European public authorities the importance of basic scientific research and the role that research universities can play in it. The alliance does this by setting out its vision of research and science policy in policy papers and statements, and by organising various events and meetings. 

The LERU maintains a dialogue and cooperates with the EU institutions and EU-related organisations active in the higher education and research arena on topics such as the European Research Area, Open Science, Horizon Europe and Erasmus+. They do this through direct communication and discussions within the policy community, sound proposals for improvement and progress, and carefully considered publications on fundamental issues affecting Europe’s research universities.

In addition, LERU focuses on the exchange of expertise between its members and fostering cooperation and interaction between its students and scientists. LERU is strongly committed to the development of Open Science, both at the level of research institutions and at the level of EU policymaking. 

For Leiden University, LERU is one of the most important partnerships within Europe. However, the scope of this alliance extends beyond Europe. For example, LERU is seeking to collaborate with like-minded university networks in the USA, China, Japan, Canada and other countries. Within the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, LERU has special consultative status.

About LERU

The League of European Research Universities (LERU) is a well-established network of research-intensive universities. We develop and disseminate our views on research, innovation and higher education through policy papers, statements, meetings and events helping to shape policy at the EU level.

The League is a valued interlocutor for the European institutions and other policy stakeholders. It acts as a strong, outspoken voice of European research-intensive universities on a wide range of topics related to EU policies and initiatives.