Established in 1983, the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) International PhD Programme provides students with the best starting platform for a successful career in science. Characterised by first-class training, internationality, dedicated mentoring and early independence in research, it is among the world's most competitive PhD training schemes in molecular biology. All of EMBL's six outstations participate in the programme.
EMBL's European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI) provides a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment in which research and service provision are closely allied. We are a world leader in bioinformatics research and service provision, as we are at the centre of global efforts to collect and disseminate biological data. We share a campus with the Wellcome Sanger Institute, 12 miles south of Cambridge in the United Kingdom.
PhD students at EMBL-EBI are members of the University of Cambridge and one of its Colleges. They receive their degree from Cambridge University; the programme is coordinated in Heidelberg with local support at EBI. Please visit the EMBL International PhD Programme pages to learn about how to apply. Please note all applicants must secure a place on the EMBL programme before submitting an application to the University of Cambridge.
EMBL PhD students receive theoretical and practical training and conduct a research project under the supervision of an EMBL faculty member, monitored by a thesis advisory committee. The duration of PhD studies is normally three-and-a-half to four years.
In Year 1 all new PhD students will attend the EMBL Predoctoral Core Course in Molecular Biology in Heidelberg; attend Primers for Predocs; undergo nomination of a thesis advisory committee to monitor student progress, and submit and defend a project proposal.
In Year 2 students will need to submit a second annual report to the thesis advisory committee, participate in the Bioinformatics course and predoc seminar day.
In Year 3 students will need to submit a third annual report to the thesis advisory committee.
In Years 3/4 students will need to write and submit their thesis: PhD awarded following Degree Committee approval and successful completion of an oral examination.
Open Days
The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the beginning of November. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the Postgraduate Open Day page for more details.
See further the Postgraduate Admissions Events pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.
