EMBL is seeking a motivated scientist to lead an independent research group, addressing original biological questions in the broad area of molecular systems biology.
About EMBL
The Molecular Systems Biology Unit at EMBL invites talented scientists to establish their independent research group and explore bold and important questions in relevant thematic areas, including but not restricted to: integrative structural biology, whole-cell modelling and/or ML/AI-driven approaches to model macromolecular function and cellular organization, structural bioinformatics, protein design, synthetic biology, chemical biology approaches to manipulate and engineer biological systems, high-throughput biochemistry, in situ or large-scale genome engineering, and data-driven biology.
The Unit is at the forefront of understanding molecular structure, organization and function at a systematic level. They employ a suite of cutting-edge structural, computational and systems biology approaches, including combining high throughput perturbations (genetics and chemical) to multi-modal readouts (cellular and omics), to gain quantitative and mechanistic insights into how complex biological processes operate and coordinate in the context of cells, organisms and communities and across temporal, spatial and evolutionary scales. Within this framework, a wide variety of biological contexts and processes are studied. Here you will join a vibrant and interdisciplinary community where collaboration and innovation are fostered. Discover more about the Unit and the research conducted by the different groups in our webpage.
Find out more about the role and apply here.
Your role
As a Group Leader, you will:
Your profile
You have an excellent Ph.D. and postdoctoral track record in the natural or life sciences, with an interest in the broader field of molecular systems biology. Applicants with a background in computer science, mathematics, engineering, physics and chemistry with who are interested in understanding the molecular complexity of biological systems are also encouraged to apply. You should have an ambitious research plan with original ideas and clearly defined goals. You are dedicated to developing positive relationships and providing leadership and guidance to team members. Your research will synergize with the activities at EMBL MSB and leverage and contribute to ongoing research across EMBL.
Key competencies
Scientific context and strategic fit
EMBL’s long-term scientific direction, Molecules to Ecosystems, include a vision to advance our understanding of ecosystems at the molecular level, applying expertise in molecular biology to study life in its natural context. Research areas include applying experimental, computational and theoretical approaches to study how cells and organisms interact with each other and respond to fluctuating environments. The new established areas are embedded in the research of the Molecular Systems Biology Unit, which fosters extensive Links to the Infection Biology, Microbial Ecosystems and Planetary Biology Transversal Themes. We are interested in hosting scientists, who can enhance and extend these areas in innovative ways. For example, microbial cells, communities and their interactions with their hosts and the environment is one of the common threads within the Unit.
We welcome original and ambitious proposals that develop or utilize cutting-edge approaches to be used to bridge systems-level views to molecular mechanism. New experimental and computational methods, including data and deep-learning driven approaches to study complex biological processes in the context of cells, organisms, communities and ecosystems are welcome. Biological areas include (but are not limited to):
Why EMBL is an excellent environment for You as a Group Leader
EMBL typically appoints group leaders early in their career and provides everything you need to support this transition to your first independent position to achieve your research goals.
EMBL group leaders benefit from:
How to apply
Before applying, please read full application instructions here.
You should submit an exciting research plan with original and ambitious goals for your future team. In your online application, you will be asked to include a cover letter, your CV, the names and contact details of 3 referees and a concise description of research interests & future research plans, highlighting your unique vision (up to four pages). Letters of recommendation should be submitted by the referees by or shortly after the application deadline. Find all vacancy details and apply here.
Closing Date
22/09/2025
