Postdoctoral researchers seeking to build careers beyond traditional academic research now have an exciting opportunity in Europe. The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) has officially opened applications for the ARISE2 Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026, offering fully funded three-year employment contracts for outstanding researchers working at the intersection of life sciences, technology, engineering, and data science.
Funded through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND programme, ARISE2 is designed for researchers who want to develop cutting-edge scientific technologies, research infrastructure, digital tools, and laboratory services that benefit the global scientific community.
Unlike conventional postdoctoral fellowships that primarily focus on publishing research papers, ARISE2 prepares fellows for long-term careers in research infrastructure, scientific innovation, and technology development.
Scholarship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) |
| Programme | ARISE2 Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme |
| Funding | Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA COFUND) |
| Location | EMBL Research Sites, Europe |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Study Level | Postdoctoral Fellowship |
| Application Deadline | 30 September 2026 |
What Makes ARISE2 Different?
ARISE2 has been created specifically for researchers interested in developing technologies that enable scientific discovery rather than focusing solely on academic publications.
Fellows work on projects that improve research infrastructure, laboratory technologies, scientific software, imaging systems, computational platforms, automation, and advanced analytical methods used by researchers around the world.
The programme combines scientific research with professional development, allowing participants to gain experience in technology transfer, project management, leadership, scientific services, and innovation.
Research Areas
Applicants from a wide range of STEM disciplines are encouraged to apply, including:
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
- Computational Biology
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Structural Biology
- Genomics
- Proteomics
- Scientific Imaging
- Automation Technologies
- Life Science Technologies
Researchers whose work focuses on developing new scientific methods, digital tools, or laboratory technologies are particularly well suited for the programme.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive employment package that includes:
- Three-year full-time employment contract at EMBL
- Competitive salary with employee benefits
- Social security coverage
- Access to world-class research facilities
- Professional development and leadership training
- Career mentoring and planning support
- Opportunities for secondments with partner organisations
- Training in research infrastructure management
- Experience in technology transfer and innovation
- Networking opportunities with leading international scientists
As this is an employment-based fellowship rather than a student scholarship, fellows receive a salaried position instead of a traditional scholarship stipend.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship welcomes applicants from around the world who meet the following requirements:
- Hold a PhD by the application deadline (or have successfully defended their doctoral thesis)
- Demonstrate experience in developing scientific methods or technologies
- Have research interests aligned with EMBL’s scientific infrastructure or technology platforms
- Meet the programme’s mobility and eligibility requirements
- Be prepared to undertake a full-time three-year fellowship
Applicants with previous EMBL experience may still be eligible, provided their prior association with the institution does not exceed 12 months within the three years preceding the application deadline.
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated through a competitive international review process based on three key criteria:
- Scientific excellence
- Potential impact of the proposed project
- Quality and feasibility of implementation
Shortlisted candidates will participate in online interviews, where they will present their research proposal, discuss their career achievements, and demonstrate how their project will contribute to EMBL’s research infrastructure and scientific services.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application:
- Completed online application form
- Research project proposal using the official template
- Horizon Europe ethics self-assessment
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Reference letter (minimum of one, with up to three permitted)
- Any additional documents requested by EMBL
Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact an eligible EMBL group leader before submitting their application to discuss project suitability and identify a potential supervisor.
Why Consider the ARISE2 Fellowship?
The ARISE2 Fellowship offers a unique career pathway for researchers who want to combine scientific excellence with innovation and technology development.
Rather than concentrating exclusively on academic publishing, fellows contribute to building the tools, platforms, and research services that enable scientific discoveries across Europe and beyond.
With access to one of the world’s leading life science research organisations, extensive professional development opportunities, and a fully funded three-year employment contract, ARISE2 represents an outstanding opportunity for researchers seeking long-term careers in research infrastructure and scientific innovation.
Application Deadline
Applications for the EMBL ARISE2 Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 must be submitted no later than 30 September 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their proposals early and engage with potential EMBL supervisors well in advance of the deadline.
