Annual SciLifeLab call for group leaders

A SciLifeLab group leader is defined as a community member who plays a key role in SciLifeLab’s development, locally and/or nationally. We like to welcome current and new group leaders to join the SciLifeLab community. All independent researchers, especially those interested in research infrastructure development, are encouraged to apply.

Why become a SciLifeLab group leader?

SciLifeLab group leaders are either 

• a researcher responsible for a research group (a PI) in life science;
• responsible for a technology platform or unit at SciLifeLab; or
• a DDLS Fellows.

They all have a strong commitment to SciLifeLab centre and affiliate with SciLifeLab, as well as a Swedish organisation in life science.

Becoming a Scilifelab group leader can involve a number of opportunities within the SciLifeLab ecosystem. You can:

• be invited to participate in SciLifeLab and community meetings and outreach efforts;
• get visibility in SciLifeLab channels;
• get access to tailored SciLifeLab Group Leader events and funding calls;
• get a SciLifeLab email address;
• join SciLifeLab mailing list and slack communication tool; and
• boost recruitments with SciLifeLab careers.

There are also some responsibilities. Read more on SciLifeLabs website.

How to become a SciLifeLab group leader

The SciLifeLab group leader annual call is open from 2 June to 1 September 2026. All independent researchers, especially those interested in research infrastructure development, are encouraged to apply through a self-nomination portal.

Nominations are submitted individually either:

• by a candidate directly (self-nomination); or
• following an invitation by a SciLifeLab founding university or site committee member.

Important! The head of department must support your application.

The applicant must provide examples on concrete contributions to SciLifeLab's activities (not to SciLifeLab's strategic objectives in general). Example contributions are given in the SciLifeLab Group Leader Principles & Guidelines document.  

Contributions within all five areas of SciLifeLab:s objectives are not required 

Applications are reviewed and prioritised.

Apply through the nomination form

Apply no later than 1 September.

Learn more about the call and find the nomination form 

Learn more

Learn more about the SciLifeLab group leader role

Learn more about the nomination procedure

Do you have any questions?

If you have questions and need support to fill in the application, please contact Linda Sandblad, the SciLifeLab Umeå site director, at linda.sandblad@umu.se.