The University of Groningen has a rich academic tradition dating back to 1614. From this tradition arose the first female student and the first female lecturer in the Netherlands, the first Dutch astronaut and the first president of the European Central Bank.Geographically, the University is rooted in the Northern part of the Netherlands, a region very close to its heart. The University provides high quality education and research in a broad range of disciplines, focusing on three key elements: Energy, Healthy Ageing and Sustainable Society. Groningen’s researchers also collaborate with business partners, public institutions and the government. Collaborations between researchers on the frontiers of knowledge take place within extensive networks.In addition, the University of Groningen stimulates current debate on scientific, social and cultural issues by providing convincing perspectives and fresh ideas, based on the latest scientific findings. Education and research at are internationally oriented. Students from all over the world prepare themselves in Groningen for their international career paths. The University of Groningen has a strong international reputation and maintains a firm -- rapidly increasing -- position in the international rankings lists.