Summer is a social time across EMBL, bringing together current and former members of the community to celebrate science and connect with colleagues. In this photo round-up, we look back at recent highlights, from the long-standing traditions of Lab Day and the Summer Party, which Heidelberg alumni will remember from their time at EMBL, to the John Kendrew and Lennart Philipson Award Ceremony, where alumni returned to campus to celebrate outstanding members of the community. We also held a Matti Saraste Reunion, which brought together Matti’s family, friends and former colleagues to honour his life and legacy 25 years after his death.

Friday 10 July 2026

EMBL Alumni Awards Ceremony
Alumni returned to EMBL Heidelberg to celebrate the achievements of Lisa Maier and Stephen Cusack, recipients of the 2026 EMBL John Kendrew and Lennart Philipson Awards respectively. Read an interview with Lisa and watch the recipients’ talks on the EMBL Alumni YouTube channel

EMBL Director General and alumnus Tony Hyman and EMBL Alumni Association Chair Pavel Tomancak preparing for the Alumni Awards ceremony with a light-hearted guide to the many forms of ‘alumnus’, ensuring everyone left knowing their alumni from their alumnae.

EMBL Lab Day
A highlight of the EMBL calendar, Lab Day once again brought together colleagues from across EMBL for a day of science, collaboration, creativity, and celebration.

EAA board meeting
Members of the EMBL Alumni Association board met with the John Kendrew Award donor Roland Specker (centre) and his daughter Caroline Häublein (fourth from right). The latter will take over the funding of the John Kendrew Award from her father as of next year.

Saturday 11 July 2026

Matti Saraste Reunion
On 11 July 2026, friends, family, and former colleagues gathered at EMBL Heidelberg to celebrate the life, science, and enduring legacy of structural biologist Matti Saraste, 25 years after his passing.

EMBL Summer Parties

EMBL Heidelberg
On 25 July 2026, EMBL staff, alumni, and their families gathered for an afternoon and evening of food, music, entertainment, and catching up with old friends. Catering was provided by alumnus Jörg Fleckenstein, whose business, Feast, serves burgers at events in the local area.

EMBL Grenoble
On 3 July 2026, EMBL Grenoble staff gathered on the European Photon & Neutron Campus for a relaxed summer celebration, taking time to connect with colleagues and celebrate the strong sense of community that underpins their science.

EMBL-EBI
On 13 June 2026, the EMBL-EBI Summer Party brought together current and former colleagues, along with their families, for a festival-style afternoon of entertainment, activities, and community on the Hinxton campus.