Continuing Professional Development of teachers together with communication training for scientists are the main missions of the European Learning Laboratory for the Life Sciences [ELLS]: high-school teachers receive hands-on training in modern molecular biology techniques and EMBL scientists learn to introduce cutting-edge science to a lay audience.

The platform for ELLS' activities are LearningLABs: 3-day courses built around hands-on practicals developed by ELLS staff members together with EMBL scientists. LearningLAB topics range from the study of single molecules to organism development, bioinformatics and evolution. They also include science and society aspects, covering controversial issues such as genetic testing and stem cell research.