Dr Susan Schlimpert is among 24 life scientists named as new members of the EMBO (European Molecular Biology Organisation) Young Investigator Programme. 

The prestigious programme supports outstanding early career group leaders who have an excellent track record of scientific achievement.  

Dr Schlimpert’s group at the John Innes Centre investigates molecular mechanisms that underpin the lifecycle of Streptomyces bacteria, producers of more than 50% of all clinically used antibiotics. 

“This award highlights the accomplishments of my team at the John Innes Centre,” said Dr Schlimpert. “I am very proud to be working with such a passionate, dedicated, collaborative and fun group of students and postdocs. They are the ones who make it all happen.”   

As an EMBO Young Investigator, Dr Schlimpert joins a network of 135 current and 390 former members of the programme. Her group will receive financial and practical support for four years, starting in January 2023. Previous EMBO Young Investigators at the John Innes Centre include Professor Xiaoqi Feng. 

EMBO Young Investigators receive an award of 15,000 euros in the second year of their tenure and can apply for additional grants of up to 10,000 euros per year. They also benefit from a broad range of practical support, including networking opportunities, mentoring by EMBO members, training in areas such as leadership skills and responsible conduct of research, and access to core facilities at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL).  

Of this year’s EMBO Young Investigators, ten are female (42%) and 14 are male (58%). The programme received 177 eligible applications, with a success rate of 14%. 

“EMBO welcomes the new Young Investigators with a sense of excitement and pride,” said EMBO Director Fiona Watt. “One of the most remarkable things about this wonderful community is its diversity of expertise. Participation in the programme supports young group leaders at a critical phase of their careers, providing opportunities to develop their laboratories, learn from one another, and make lifelong connections within a supportive network.”  

More information about the programme, including eligibility criteria and the application process, is available at: www.embo.org/funding/fellowships-grants-and-career-support/young-investigator-programme