EMBL European ARISE2 Fellowships 2026
The European ARISE2 Fellowships provide an outstanding opportunity for postdoctoral researchers to work at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) through a three-year employment programme funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND initiative. Unlike traditional postdoctoral fellowships that primarily focus on publishing research papers, ARISE2 emphasizes developing technologies, scientific services, research infrastructure, and innovative methods that benefit the global life sciences community.
The programme welcomes talented PhD researchers from around the world with expertise in technology development, computational science, engineering, data science, and life science research. Successful fellows receive a three-year employment contract, structured professional training, and opportunities to collaborate with leading research infrastructures across Europe.
Fellowship Summary
- Host Organization: European Molecular Biology Laboratory
- Fellowship Name: European ARISE2 Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme
- Host Region: Europe
- Funding Programme: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND
- Fellowship Duration: 3 Years
- Degree Level: Postdoctoral (PhD)
- Eligible Nationality: International Applicants
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2026
Degree Level
The fellowship is available for:
- Postdoctoral Researchers (PhD Holders)
Applicants must hold a PhD or have successfully defended their doctoral thesis before the application deadline.
Available Subjects
Researchers from a broad range of STEM disciplines are encouraged to apply, including:
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Engineering
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Structural Biology
- Genomics
- Proteomics
- Imaging Science
- Computational Biology
- Automation Technologies
- Life Science Research Infrastructure
Benefits
Successful fellows will receive:
- Three-year employment contract at EMBL
- Competitive salary and employment benefits
- Social security coverage
- Access to world-class research facilities
- Professional and technical training
- Career development support
- Leadership and project management training
- Technology transfer and entrepreneurship training
- Research infrastructure experience
- Secondment opportunities with partner organizations
- International networking and collaboration opportunities
Eligible Nationalities
The fellowship is open to:
- Applicants from all countries
- International researchers with eligible qualifications
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD degree or have successfully defended their doctoral thesis before the application deadline.
- Have experience in technology or method development related to life sciences.
- Propose a project aligned with EMBL research infrastructure or scientific services.
- Demonstrate expertise that contributes to research technologies, scientific tools, or service development.
- Meet the EMBL mobility requirements.
- Declare any previous association with EMBL.
Applicants who have been associated with EMBL for more than 12 months within the three years preceding the application deadline are generally not eligible.
Application Procedure
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Completed online application form
- Research project proposal using the official template
- Horizon Europe Ethics Self-Assessment
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- PhD certificate or proof of thesis defense
- Reference letter (minimum one; up to three allowed)
- Supporting documents requested by EMBL
Applicants are encouraged to contact an eligible EMBL supervisor before submitting their proposal.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Review the available research groups and identify a suitable EMBL supervisor.
- Contact the supervisor to discuss your proposed project.
- Prepare your research proposal using the official template.
- Complete the online ARISE2 application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Arrange for at least one reference letter to be submitted before the deadline.
- Submit the application by 30 September 2026.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview, where they will present their research proposal and discuss their career achievements.
Why Apply for the ARISE2 Fellowship?
The ARISE2 Fellowship offers an excellent opportunity for researchers who wish to build careers in research infrastructure, technology development, and scientific innovation. Fellows work alongside experts at EMBL while developing technologies, software, imaging systems, AI tools, and research services that support scientists worldwide. The programme also provides structured career development, leadership training, and international collaboration, making it an ideal pathway for researchers seeking long-term careers in science and technology.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the European ARISE2 Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme is 30 September 2026.
