When you think of physics, do you think only of complicated formulas? You’re not the only one. Therefore, every year, the Leiden Institute of Physics organises the LION Image Award to show another side of physics: beautiful images about intriguing science. The winner of the 2022 photo competition captured his research about cancer metastasis in an image that is reminiscent of fireworks.

The winners of the 2022 competition:

• First place: Spheroid Force Sensing by Rick Rodrigues de Mercado
• Second place: Colourful Organic Crystals by Robert Smit
• Third place: Merry Silicon Christmas by Guido Stam