CEB Professor Joins EMBO Young Investigators Programme

Dr. Alexander Borodavka has joined the European Molecular Biology Organisation's select group of early-career researchers

a group of orange and red objects floating in the air

Photo by ANIRUDH on Unsplash

Photo by ANIRUDH on Unsplash

Dr. Alexander Borodavka, Assistant Professor of Biotechnology at CEB, has been chosen as a new member of the European Molecular Biology Organisation (EMBO) Young Investigators Programme. This prestigious recognition places him among a select group of distinguished early-career researchers acknowledged by the organisation.   

Dr. Alexander Borodavka

His selection is attributed to his groundbreaking research at CEB, where he focuses on unravelling the mysteries of RNA and investigating how viruses construct their segmented RNA genomes. This knowledge holds the key to understanding the complexities of replication and evolution in viruses with multiple RNA strands, particularly contributing to the development of innovative therapies against rotaviruses. Given that these multi-RNA viruses are a leading cause of child mortality globally, improving our ability to fight against them is of vital importance.

The EMBO award not only provides financial support as part of the fellowship but also facilitates the advancement of Dr. Borodavka's ongoing projects at CEB by connecting him and his research group to the international network of researchers and institutions associated with EMBO.   

Reflecting on his selection, Dr. Borodavka expressed: 


“The EMBO YIP fellowship brings visibility and recognition to our work, which is invaluable in attracting talented researchers to our lab and securing additional funding for future research endeavours. Receiving this award is not only a personal honour but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire research team!”  

Our Head of Department, Professor Clemens Kaminski, also had a few words to share: 

“I am absolutely delighted for Alex to receive this award, marking him as one of the most promising leaders in the field of RNA virus research. He is one of only 3 UK recipients of this highly competitive award and I am delighted and proud to see the world class science of our CEB researchers recognised so prominently.”  

You can find out more about the EMBO Young Investigators Programme here