Nikhef is the National Institute for Subatomic Physics. Our research is aimed at particle and astroparticle physics. At Nikhef scientists and technicians work together on research into the smallest building blocks of matter and the forces that act between them. These minuscule particles are studied in collision processes using large particle accelerators, including those of CERN near Geneva, as well as in interactions of high-energy cosmic particles in the Earth's atmosphere or in seawater.

There is an intensive contact with high schools via the HISPARC project and many small projects are offered.

Nikhef is a partnership between the Institutes Organisation of NWO (NWO-I) and six universities: Maastricht University, Radboud University, University of Amsterdam, University of Groningen, Utrecht University, and VU University Amsterdam.