AIMMS – Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Molecular Research Accelerator
AIMMS is the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam’s molecular research accelerator, advancing cutting-edge science at the interface of chemistry, life sciences and data-driven domains across the VU and beyond. AIMMS is embedded within Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences (CPS), A-Life and Bioinformatics, fostering strong interdisciplinary collaboration within the university and beyond.
The mission of AIMMS is to achieve breakthroughs in molecular, pharmaceutical and life sciences through a deep understanding of molecules and their interactions with biological systems, humans and the environment. AIMMS integrates these disciplines to understand, modulate and harness biological processes to improve sustainability and human health.
Research Integration and Valorisation
AIMMS promotes the valorisation of fundamental and applied research by bringing together complementary expertises in chemistry, biology and data-driven life sciences. Across the VU and beyond, AIMMS connects researchers to study molecules and their interactions with biological systems and the environment, translating scientific insight into societal, biomedical and technological impact.
Research within AIMMS spans multiple scales and model systems, including chemical bonds and molecular structures, proteins and bioactive compounds, snake venoms and toxicity pathways, as well as microbial systems, zebrafish models and human biology. This integrated approach enables close collaboration between disciplines and supports innovation across the full research-to-impact cycle.
The research groups involved in AIMMS are embedded within the Faculty of Science at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and are affiliated with the following centres and departments:
- Centre for Integrative Bioinformatics
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology
Together, these units contribute complementary expertise in chemistry, biology, computational science and health research, reinforcing AIMMS’ interdisciplinary mission and strengthening the valorisation of research outcomes.