Professor Nina Gunde-Cimerman Becomes the First Slovenian Woman Elected to EMBO
International recognition for scientific excellence
Professor Nina Gunde-Cimerman of the Department of Biology at the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, has been elected to the European Molecular Biology Organisation (EMBO). Election to EMBO is one of the highest international distinctions in the life sciences, recognizing researchers whose scientific achievements, international standing, and contributions have significantly advanced their fields.
EMBO membership is lifelong and recognizes exceptional research excellence. The organization brings together more than 2,200 leading life scientists from Europe and around the world, including 92 current or former Nobel Prize laureates.
Prof. dr Nina Gunde-Cimerman, photo: Željko Stevanić
Exploring life in extreme environments
Professor Gunde-Cimerman is one of Slovenia's leading microbiologists and an internationally recognized expert in extremophilic fungi—microorganisms capable of thriving in some of the planet's most challenging environments, from hypersaline salterns and glaciers to household dishwashers. Her pioneering research has significantly advanced our understanding of how microorganisms adapt to extreme conditions, microbial biodiversity, and the role of fungi in natural ecosystems. In recognition of her scientific achievements, she has received numerous national and international awards, including the Jesenko Lifetime Achievement Award.
Photo: Bor Slana
The second Slovenian woman elected to EMBO
Professor Gunde-Cimerman's election represents a significant milestone for Slovenian science. She is the second Slovenian woman to be elected to EMBO and only the sixth Slovenian scientist to receive this honour. Previous Slovenian EMBO Members include Professors Dr Kristina Djinović-Carugo, Gregor Anderluh and Roman Jerala, as well as Dr Vito Turk and Dr Boris Turk.
In 2026, EMBO elected 71 new Members and Associate Members from 23 countries, including 60 Members from the European Molecular Biology Conference (EMBC) member states and 11 Associate Members from countries outside Europe.
A community shaping the future of life sciences
For more than six decades, EMBO has promoted excellence in the life sciences by supporting outstanding researchers, fostering international collaboration, and strengthening scientific communities across Europe and beyond. EMBO Members play an active role in shaping the organization's scientific programmes, serving on advisory bodies, reviewing research funding applications, and helping define future directions in the life sciences.
Professor Gunde-Cimerman's election is an important international recognition of her outstanding scientific career and further highlights the research excellence of the Biotechnical Faculty and the University of Ljubljana.
The newly elected Members and Associate Members will be formally welcomed at the EMBO Members' Meeting, which will take place in Heidelberg, Germany, from 30 September to 2 October 2026.