The European Molecular Biology Laboratory is Europe's flagship laboratory for basic research in molecular biology and funded by public research monies from 20 member states and the one associate member. Research at EMBL is conducted by approximately 85 independent groups covering the spectrum of molecular biology. The Laboratory operates from five sites: 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, to develop new instruments and methods in the life sciences, and technology transfer.

EMBL runs an international PhD Programme with a student body of about 170. The Laboratory also sponsors an active Science and Society programme and welcomes visitors from the press and public.