2026 EMBL-EBI–Sanger Postdoctoral (ESPOD) Fellowship Programme

EMBL-EBI and Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute share the Wellcome Genome Campus. This proximity fosters close collaborations and contributes to an international and vibrant campus environment. Researchers are supported by easy access to scientific expertise, well-equipped facilities and an active seminar programme.
The EMBL-EBI–Sanger Postdoctoral (ESPOD) Programme builds on the strong collaborative relationship between the two institutes, offering projects which combine experimental (wet lab) and computational approaches.

Projects may be selected from pre-defined areas or proposed by the applicant. In the case of self-defined projects, the area of work must have been agreed with both EMBL-EBI and Sanger-based group leaders. The postdoctoral fellowships will be awarded in 2026, to start as soon as possible. The start date can be agreed with the supervisors. All ESPOD fellowships must be undertaken within 12 months of the fellowship being awarded.

Further information on the ESPOD 2026 projects, please click here

You may apply for either up to a maximum of three of the advertised projects or a self-defined project.

To submit an application for the ESPOD 2026 call, your application must include:  

• A cover letter describing your interests and experience relevant to the project/s you are applying for (pre-defined or proposed by the applicant)

• Curriculum Vitae

• Two recent letters of reference (and referees may be contacted during the shortlisting process for further information)

Unfortunately, your application will not be considered if you do not satisfy the above.  

• Contract duration: This position is a 3 year project based contract

• International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Read more on our page for international applicants.

• Diversity and inclusion: At EMBL-EBI, we strongly believe that inclusive and diverse teams benefit from higher levels of innovation and creative thought. We encourage applications from women, LGBTQ+ and individuals from all nationalities.

• EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we implement best practices in research assessment in our recruitment processes here.

• Job location: This role is based in Hinxton, near Cambridge, UK. You will be required to relocate if you are based overseas and you will receive a generous relocation package to support you.

• Interviews: We expect interviews to take place on 10 December 2026 on our Campus in Cambridge (CB10 1SD).

Professional development support
The EMBL Fellows’ Career Service provides support and guidance to predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows across all six EMBL’s sites.

Working with a dedicated Careers Advisor, this invaluable service will help you to take informed decisions about your career planning both in the short and longer term. Whether your main interest is pursuing a career path in academia, exploring opportunities in industry or exploring an independent venture, the EMBL Fellows’ Career Service with provide you with a portfolio of activities and resources to help you.

To find out more please visit - EMBL-fellows-career-service

Why join us

Join a culture of innovation 
We are located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, alongside other prominent research and biotech organisations, and surrounded by beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside. This is a highly collaborative and inclusive community where our employees enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. We are committed to ensuring our employees feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their professional potential. 

Enjoy lots of employee benefits:

• Financial incentives: Monthly family and child allowances, generous stipend reviewed yearly, pension scheme, death benefit and unemployment insurances

• Flexible working arrangements including hybrid working patterns 

• Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family 

• Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year in addition to public holidays

• Campus life: Free shuttle bus to and from work, on-site library, subsidised on-site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely)

• Family benefits: On-site nursery (Heidelberg & Hinxton), 10 days of child sick leave, paid maternity & parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances

• Benefits for non-residents: Visa and financial support to relocate if you're overseas

What else you need to know

• International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Read more on our page for international applicants. 

• Diversity and inclusion: At EMBL, we believe that diverse teams drive innovation and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, identities, nationalities and/or any other diverse backgrounds.

• Job location: All our fellowships are based on-site (for at least part of each week). If you are living overseas, you will receive a generous relocation package to support you. 

• EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here.

• Watch this video to find out what it's like to be a Postdoc at EMBL-EBI.

• How to apply: To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. Applications will close at 23:59 CET on the date shown below. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date below.

Closing Date