The MESA+ research programs are also called Strategic Research Orientations (SRO's). The creation of SRO’s ensures a strong multidisciplinary activity within the institute and is a basis for realization of its goal.

An SRO is a large scientific program in the order of 30-35 full-time researchers, which satisfies the following criteria:
- Combining high-quality research of at least five groups within the institute into a genuine multidisciplinary program;
- Providing excellent opportunities for international top-level research;
- Attractive for external funding (which is a quality indicator in its own right).

2009-2014

Applied Nanophotonics

Pepijn Pinkse

NanoMaterials for Energy

Mark Huijben

Nanotechnology for Innovative Medicine

Serge Lemay

Risk analysis and Technology Assessment

Arie Rip

2005-2010

BioNanotechnology

Martin Bennink

Cell-Stress

Michiel Duits

MesoFluidics

Han Gardeniers

NanoElectronics

Wilfred van der Wiel

NanoFabrication

Jurriaan Huskens

Molecular Photonics

Jennifer Herek