EMBL Sabbatical Programme 2026–2027
The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) has announced its call for the EMBL Sabbatical Programme (2026–2027). This prestigious program provides experienced scientists, professors, and group leaders worldwide the opportunity to conduct collaborative research, master new technologies, and expand their academic networks across EMBL’s state-of-the-art sites in Europe.
Whether you are seeking to immerse yourself in structural biology, genomics, bioinformatics, imaging, or developmental biology, an EMBL sabbatical offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment to advance your scientific goals.
Program Overview
The EMBL Sabbatical Programme is designed for established investigators wishing to spend a dedicated research period (typically ranging from a few months up to a year) embedded within an EMBL research unit or core facility.
| Program | EMBL Sabbatical Programme (Call 2026–2027) |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) |
| Locations | Heidelberg (Germany), Hinxton (EMBL-EBI, UK), Barcelona (Spain), Grenoble (France), Hamburg (Germany), Rome (Italy) |
| Target Group | Principal Investigators, Group Leaders, Associate/Full Professors, Senior Scientists |
| Duration | Flexible (typically 3 to 12 months) |
| Application Mode | Online via EMBL Career Portal |
Key Benefits and Opportunities
- Access to World-Class Infrastructure: Utilize advanced facilities in cryo-EM, high-throughput sequencing, advanced light microscopy, beamlines, and computational biology.
- Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Work directly with EMBL faculty, postdocs, and technical specialists on joint research initiatives.
- Knowledge and Skill Transfer: Learn cutting-edge experimental methodologies and computational tools to bring back to your home institution.
- Scientific Exchange: Participate in high-profile institute seminars, international symposia, and lab retreats.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the EMBL Sabbatical Programme, applicants generally must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a permanent or long-term academic/research appointment (e.g., Principal Investigator, Assistant/Associate/Full Professor, or equivalent senior scientist position) at a recognized research institution or university.
- Have a clear, well-defined research proposal aligned with the interests of at least one EMBL research group or facility.
- Obtain formal approval/sabbatical leave permission from their home institution.
- Prior contact and mutual agreement with prospective host EMBL Group Leader(s) or Head of Unit is strongly recommended before submitting the official application.
How to Apply
Prospective applicants should prepare and submit their applications through the EMBL online recruitment portal. A typical application bundle includes:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailed academic history and list of key publications.
- Research Proposal: Outline of the proposed project, objectives, methodologies, and expected outcomes during the sabbatical.
- Statement of Host Support: Indication of interest or support letter from the intended EMBL host group/unit leader.
- Letter of Endorsement: Confirmation of institutional sabbatical approval from your home organization.
Official Application Link: Apply directly via the EMBL Sabbatical Programme Portal (JR4457).
Conclusion
A sabbatical at EMBL offers an unparalleled environment to refresh your scientific perspective, generate high-impact collaborative publications, and establish long-lasting research ties across Europe. Interested researchers are encouraged to reach out to potential EMBL hosts early and submit their proposals before the call closes.
