The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) invites applications from outstanding, motivated students worldwide for the EMBL International PhD Programme (EIPP). As Europe’s flagship laboratory for the life sciences, EMBL provides world-class research training, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and mentorship across its diverse research sites.
Summary of the Scholarship
The EMBL International PhD Programme provides comprehensive, interdisciplinary doctoral training across molecular biology, genomics, computational biology, and related fields. Selected candidates join independent research groups across six European sites, receive full financial support, and work towards a PhD degree awarded in collaboration with partner universities.
Key Details at a Glance
| Programme | EMBL International PhD Programme (EIPP) |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Student / Predoctoral Fellow |
| Host Institution | European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) |
| Locations | Heidelberg & Hamburg (Germany), Hinxton (UK), Grenoble (France), Rome (Italy), Barcelona (Spain) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Application Deadline | 12 October 2026 (23:59 CET) |
| Reference Deadline | 14 October 2026 (23:59 CET) |
| Expected Start Date | Flexible (by October 2027 at the latest) |
Designation
PhD Fellow / Predoctoral Researcher
Research Area
The programme covers the entire spectrum of modern molecular biology and life sciences, including but not limited to:
- Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Genomics, Proteomics, and Bioinformatics
- Structural Biology and Biophysics
- Computational Biology and Data Science
- Developmental Biology and Neurobiology
- Infection Biology and Human Disease Mechanisms
- Tissue Biology and Disease Modelling
Location
Successful candidates will be based at one of EMBL’s six European research sites:
- EMBL Heidelberg (Headquarters, Germany)
- EMBL-EBI Hinxton (European Bioinformatics Institute, United Kingdom)
- EMBL Barcelona (Spain)
- EMBL Grenoble (France)
- EMBL Hamburg (Germany)
- EMBL Rome (Italy)
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Academic Qualification: Applicants must hold, or anticipate receiving before starting at EMBL, a university degree that formally qualifies them to enter a PhD or equivalent programme in the country where the degree was obtained (e.g., a Master’s degree or equivalent).
- Nationality: Open to highly qualified applicants of all nationalities worldwide.
- Language Proficiency: High proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required as English is the everyday working language at EMBL. Official test scores (such as GRE, IELTS, or TOEFL) are not mandatory.
- Letters of Reference: Applications must be supported by a minimum of two academic reference letters.
- Prior EMBL Association: Candidates with prior associations with EMBL (e.g., interns, trainees, Master students) are welcome to apply and are reviewed according to equal treatment guidelines.
Scholarship Description and Benefits
EMBL provides an inspiring, collaborative environment featuring:
- Competitive financial support (salary/stipend covering living expenses and health insurance).
- Full access to cutting-edge research facilities, advanced technologies, and scientific services.
- Structured complementary training, including transferable skills, scientific writing, and career development.
- No application fees or processing fees at any stage of recruitment.
- Shared Applicant Pool (ShAP): High-calibre applicants not selected directly for an EMBL group can opt in to have their profiles shared with leading external group leaders across European research institutes.
Selection Process and Timeline
- Written Application Results: Second half of October 2026
- Online Screening Interviews: 27 October – 13 November 2026
- Virtual Panel Assessment (VPA): 01 December 2026
- In-Person Interviews (Onsite): 25 – 29 January 2027 (EMBL-EBI, Barcelona, Hamburg, Grenoble, Rome) and 01 – 04 February 2027 (EMBL Heidelberg)
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the official EMBL online application system. Email submissions are not accepted.
- Create an account on the EMBL Online Application Portal.
- Complete the online application sections. Note that you should not upload separate CVs or course certificates, as all evaluations are based on the information entered directly into the portal fields.
- Register the contact details and institutional email addresses of at least two academic referees early to give them sufficient time to submit references.
- Submit the completed application before the official closing deadline.
Last Date for Apply
Application Submission Deadline: 12 October 2026, 23:59 CET
Reference Letters Deadline: 14 October 2026, 23:59 CET
Apply Link
For full details and to submit your application, visit the official portal:
Apply Online for the EMBL International PhD Programme
