We are EMBL: Simone Vegh on coordinating funding for large infrastructure programmes

EMBL-EBI’s data resources are critical for the life sciences, and they wouldn’t exist without the funding and technical infrastructure that underpins them. Simone Vegh’s effective programme management ensures that funding continues to flow to support EMBL-EBI.

EMBL-EBI operates within a complex funding landscape. Approximately half of its funding comes from EMBL member states, while the remainder comes from funding agencies and the institute’s Industry Programme. 

As part of the Major Initiatives Team, Simone Vegh coordinates the development of business cases, funding applications and reports for the Data Infrastructure Programme, funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). This long-term programme, worth over £80m over six years, helps EMBL-EBI transform its technical infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the global life science community.

Below, Simone shares her insights on why EMBL-EBI’s work is critical to scientific discovery, and how her interdisciplinary background comes in handy.

Tell me a little bit about your background. 

I was born in Brazil and moved to the UK more than 20 years ago. I have a degree in technology and administration, and a BSc in psychology, where I had my first practical experience with research – an experience that confirmed a passion for science I’ve had for as long as I can remember.

I love the first-hand knowledge that comes from research, and how it shapes the world we live in. I’ve been fortunate to work in academic and research organisations where I can use my skills and training to support scientific progress.

How did you come to work at EMBL-EBI?

I used to work for the University of Cambridge, and first encountered EMBL-EBI through its bioinformatics training. These courses were a key learning resource for our PhD students. 

As I learned more about the institute, I was excited to see that such a globally significant research infrastructure was right on my doorstep. When a suitable role came up, I applied. 

What do you do at EMBL-EBI?

I joined as a Senior Project Manager and I’m now a Major Initiatives Programme Manager. I coordinate large-scale, long-term funding programmes by UK Research and Innovation, which is one of EMBL-EBI’s major funders. 

The current Data Infrastructure Programme runs over ten years, and is extremely important for EMBL-EBI’s vision to advance scientific discovery through bioinformatics. The programme is complex and covers many areas such as biodata and bioimaging. All of EMBL-EBI’s data resources depend on robust technical infrastructure and much of the infrastructure funding comes from this programme. Without technical infrastructure, scientific discovery would grind to a halt. 

“Without technical infrastructure, science would grind to a halt.”

Alongside this work, I drove and continue to support EMBL-EBI’s current risk management framework. This supports senior leadership to make informed decisions and prioritise effectively.

What are some of your achievements at EMBL-EBI so far?

The first phase of the Data Infrastructure Programme was very successful and we had extremely positive feedback from our funders. It included critical projects, such a major data centre relocation, which happened in the midst of the first COVID-19 lockdown, as well as the development of EMBL-EBI’s third permanent building, the Thornton Building.

The second phase of the programme, which is currently underway, includes a range of initiatives, from addressing the institute’s technical transformation to launching new portals such as the AMR Portal.

It’s also been rewarding to see how my team contributions to the institute’s risk management framework have helped strengthen EMBL-EBI’s governance, data storage systems and cybersecurity capabilities. To address risks, you need to first be aware of them. 

What are some of the challenges you face in your role?

Because EMBL-EBI’s work is global and interdisciplinary, the number of stakeholders the institute has is a real challenge. Even within a single programme, keeping everyone informed and engaged is not always easy. That said, the programme team is fantastic and incredibly committed to the work, which makes all the difference.

What are your upcoming priorities?

In 2026, we’re planning to develop a new stakeholder engagement framework. In parallel, we’ll continue working with our funders on existing and new projects to support EMBL-EBI’s missions. We’ve got lots of exciting developments lined up.

What do you enjoy most about working at EMBL-EBI?

Many organisations have local or national impact, but EMBL-EBI’s impact is truly global. The institute’s commitment to open data is both powerful and transformative for science. By enabling scientists everywhere to access and reuse data, we help advance research regardless of geography or available resources. 

“Many organisations have local or national impact, but EMBL-EBI’s impact is truly global.”

Another pleasant surprise has been how much our funders value EMBL-EBI’s work. We consistently get positive feedback on the quality of the institute’s work and scale of its impact.

Finally, I love working with people from around the world. Our small team is made up of people from different countries, including Nigeria, Poland, the USA, UK, and Germany. Everyone is supportive and kind, open to sharing their culture, perspectives and ideas. It’s a genuinely special working environment. 

What hobbies or interests do you have?

I love reading and I have very eclectic tastes. I devour books from history to dystopian novels. One day, I hope to write a novel of my own.