EMBL was set up to promote molecular biology across Europe, and to create a centre of excellence for training Europe's leading young molecular biologists. To accomplish this, EMBL pursues five missions:

Perform fundamental research in molecular biology

EMBL has developed an integrative, interdisciplinary structure to study and understand biological phenomena in their full complexity.

Provide facilities and services for life scientists

Core facilities provide space and equipment for physical experiments, while digital services such as molecular databases serve millions of users each year.

Develop and share new technologies and methods

To push the boundaries of biological knowledge, EMBL scientists invent new tools and techniques, and engage in technology transfer.

Teach and train students and scientists

EMBL’s multifaceted training programme covers students at all levels from high-school to postdocs, as well as professional development for scientists.

Integrate European life-science research

EMBL works to establish links and initiate collaborative projects between scientists in Europe and the wider world.