EMBL International PhD Programme 2026 in Life Sciences (Fully Funded): Summer Recruitment Call Now Open

The EMBL International PhD Programme (EIPP) 2026 Summer Recruitment is now open for applications, offering early-career scientists the opportunity to join an international team focusing on molecular life sciences. With a deadline of 9 March 2026, this prestigious programme provides a unique pathway for researchers to undertake basic research across six European locations while gaining comprehensive, interdisciplinary training.

The fellowship is designed to offer a careful balance between theory and practice, enabling researchers to contribute to cutting-edge projects with creative freedom. For the 2026 intake, the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) is inviting applications for fully funded positions. Recruited candidates are expected to start their work at EMBL latest by October 2026.

EMBL PhD Programme Objectives

The programme aims to foster early independence and strengthen the relationship between diverse scientific disciplines. Its core objectives include:

• Contributing creative approaches to basic research in molecular life sciences

• Fostering innovation through collaborative teamwork and individual independence

• Providing interdisciplinary training across Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering

• Establishing a platform for successful careers in science through close mentoring

• Expanding researchers’ understanding of cutting-edge topics in varying research units

Host Locations

The 2026 Summer Recruitment brings together opportunities across EMBL’s European sites. Participating host locations include:

Heidelberg (Germany), Barcelona (Spain), Grenoble (France), Hamburg (Germany), Hinxton (near Cambridge, UK), and Rome (Italy).

Each of these units offers an enriching encounter of different nationalities and a collaborative atmosphere designed to forge long-lasting connections.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Diverse academic background in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or Molecular Medicine

• Holding, or anticipating to receive before the start date, a university degree that formally qualifies for entry into a PhD programme

• Commitment to interdisciplinary research and scientific excellence

• Full eligibility conditions and DORA assessment practices are outlined in the call document.

Key Dates

• Recruitment Call: Open Now

• Application Deadline: 9 March 2026

• Expected Start Date: Latest by October 2026

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the EMBL online portal before the deadline. The positions are fully funded and include broad health care and pension benefits.

EMBL is a signatory of DORA (Declaration on Research Assessment), ensuring best practices in the recruitment process. A thorough review of the research topics is essential before beginning the application.

For accessing the application, click here.

To know more about such opportunities, click here.