The European Molecular Biology Laboratory is a non-profit organisation and a basic research institute funded by public research monies from 20 member states and one associate member. Research at EMBL is conducted by approximately 80 independent groups covering the spectrum of molecular biology. The Laboratory has five units: the main Laboratory in Heidelberg, and Outstations in Hinxton [the European Bioinformatics Institute], Grenoble, Hamburg, and Monterotondo near Rome.

The cornerstones of EMBL's mission are: to perform basic research in molecular biology, to train scientists, students and visitors at all levels, to offer vital services to scientists in the member states, and to develop new instruments and methods in the life sciences, and technology transfer.

EMBL's international PhD Programme has a student body of about 170. The Laboratory also sponsors an active Science and Society programme. Visitors from the press and public are welcome.

Source: http://www.embl.de/aboutus/index.html, as accessed on April 30, 2014.