EMBL Heidelberg history

The main laboratory in Heidelberg was inaugurated in 1978 as the first EMBL facility dedicated to basic molecular biology research, technology development, service provision and advanced training.

foundation stone laying ceremony for the EMBL Imaging Centre
On 1 April 2019 the foundation stone laying ceremony for the EMBL Imaging Centre took place. Representatives of EMBL and all involved partners took part in the ceremony. PHOTO: EMBL
Construction of EMBL Heidelberg in 1974
Construction of EMBL Heidelberg in 1974
Construction of the EMBL Advanced Training Centre
Construction of the EMBL Advanced Training Centre

2021 - First instruments delivered to the Imaging Centre, and handover of the completed building

2019 - Ceremony onsite to mark the laying of the Foundation Stone for the EMBL Imaging Centre

2017 - Funding agreed for a new EMBL Imaging Centre at Heidelberg

2010 - Official opening of the EMBL Advanced Training Centre in Heidelberg.

2006 - Construction of the new Advanced Training Centre starts in Heidelberg.

1991 - Construction of EMBL's NMR facility begins.

1988 - EMBL's Operon conference centre and seminar facilities are built at Heidelberg. The first EMBL childcare facilities are opened.

1984 - Construction of EMBL guest houses for visiting scientists and newcomers begins.

1978 - Scientists move from temporary facilities into the newly completed laboratory at Heidelberg.

1975 - Construction of the Heidelberg laboratory begins.

1971 - Heidelberg is chosen as the site for EMBL's main laboratory.

EMBL's administrative headquarters in the Southern German city of Heidelberg hosts five research units and many of the laboratory's core facilities.