Network Science for a Connected World

About this programme

Networks are the backbone of our modern world, underlying everything from social interactions and information flow to biological systems and global trade. Understanding these interconnected structures is key to solving modern challenges in science, technology, and society.

Network science reveals the fundamental principles behind diverse systems:

• Biological networks sustain life by linking genes, proteins, and metabolites.

• Neural networks help us understand cognition and brain function.

• Social networks influence behavior, information spread, and relationships.

• Communication networks power the internet and mobile connectivity.

• Infrastructure networks keep transportation, energy, and logistics running.

• Trade networks drive economic growth and global commerce.

Despite their differences, these networks follow common laws, enabling breakthroughs in areas like epidemiology, cybersecurity, and data science.The minor Network Science for a Connected World provides students with a foundation in network theory, computational tools, and interdisciplinary applications.

This minor is an initiative of the Leiden Complex Networks Network (LCN2), a collaboration between the faculties of Science (MI, LIACS, LION) and Social Sciences (CWTS). It is designed to be accessible to students from diverse backgrounds, including those from the humanities, social sciences, and life sciences, while maintaining a rigorous quantitative approach.

General information

• Size: 30 EC

• Period: September – January;

• Language: English

• Number of participants: minimum 15; maximum 90

• General information: dr. R.S. Hazra (r.s.hazra@math.leidenuniv.nl)

• Coordinators: dr. R.S. Hazra (academic); L.C. van Kempen-Helmsing (administrative, coordinator@math.leidenuniv.nl)

Enrollment / Good to know

Accessibility

The minor is open to all third-year bachelor’s students of Leiden University and our LDE partners. Its quantitative nature means that it will appeal to students of FWN; but we also explicitly aim to attract students from LUMC; and other faculties such as HUM; FSW and FGGA with an interest in the wide range of applications and societal relevance of network science; from social media networks and global trade systems to biological ecosystems and information flows.