Bioinformatics

Prof. Kok

“The computer is becoming increasingly invisible but consequently more powerful.”

“Computer science is a relatively new field where there is still a lot to be achieved. I am fascinated by computers: in writing software you really are creating something. That’s a powerful feeling. In addition, as a computer scientist, the world is your oyster and you have access to an extensive range of different working environments.

Leiden offers students four unique research clusters: Algorithms, Computer Systems, Imagery & Media and Foundations of Software Technology. I believe that this broad structure is what makes our master’s so attractive. We distinguish ourselves from other programmes as a result of our fundamental approach and because we not only focus on technology, but also on the application of computer science in such environments as the insurance industry, supermarkets and hospitals.

There are many opportunities inherent in computer science – the pace of technological developments based on computer science is very rapid – but some things are not possible and never will be possible. You can’t write a programme, for example, that monitors whether other programmes ever stop. Computer science has a number of these fundamental limitations and I find it interesting that my field addresses these issues.

I believe that people are not sufficiently aware how much computer science has penetrated their everyday lives. And this trend will continue. I have high expectations of grid computing: the computer is becoming increasingly invisible but consequently more powerful. Computer science will enter your home, like electricity, and organise everything for you.”