A fruitful collaboration between SciLifeLab and EMBL
In 2021, SciLifeLab and the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Since then, the partnership has led to interesting exchange within research infrastructure and training topics, and how to bring together global expertise to address key scientific challenges. Recently, a report about the collaborations was released, in which three main topics was covered.
Workshops and Training Initiatives
One of the most important aspects of the partnership has been the organization of theme-based workshops that combine expertise from both institutions. So far, two has been held, the Planetary Biology Workshop, in 2022 at the EMBL Advanced Training Centre in Heidelberg, and the 2023 Data Science Workshop at the Ångström Laboratory at Uppsala University. These workshops not only facilitated the exchange of knowledge across different research fields, such as biodiversity, genomics, and data management, but also initiated ongoing discussions involving both organisations on new research methodologies and training managment.
Strategic Research Projects and Funding
Another significant achievement of the collaboration has been collaborative research initiatives, eg as part of EMBL’s flagship project Traversing European Coastlines (TREC) and collaborative applications for funding under schemes like the EC Horizon Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA). These projects have leveraged joint expertise to secure additional funding and resources, ensuring the sustainability and expansion of research activities. The successful applications of MSCA funds for the postdoc program SciLifeLab PULSE, that include EMBL as a partner and EMBLs ARISE2 in 2024, in which SciLifeLab is integrated, underscore the strategic alignment and mutual benefits derived from the partnership.
Expansion of Collaborative Networks and Future Plans
The plan for expanding the collaboration with a focus on Infection Biology is promising. The commitment to regular strategic meetings since October 2021 has been crucial in facilitating effective communication between SciLifeLab and EMBL representatives.
Overall, the collaboration between SciLifeLab and EMBL exemplifies a successful model of international scientific partnership, driving innovation and addressing pivotal global challenges through shared expertise and resources.
Read the report!
