Imagine a cutting-edge systems biology unit in a state-of-the-art research park with a community of top scientists, all within a stone's throw of the sand and waves of the sunny Mediterranean coast. Well, there is no longer a need to daydream — in September 2006, the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) launched the EMBL/CRG Research Unit for Systems Biology in Barcelona, Spain.

“Systems biology is the future of biomedicine,” says Luis Serrano, the coordinator of the unit, “and in this new partnership we will combine theoretical and experimental approaches to better understand some of the key aspects of human health” (EMBL press release, 7 September 2006). In support, the Spanish ministry for Education and Science has pledged € 12.7 million over the next nine years to the new unit.

Miguel Beato, Director of the CRG, hopes that through “adopting EMBL's system of fostering young talents and regular staff turnover we will ensure a continuous flow of ideas” (EMBL press release, 7 September 2006). Serrano intends to develop “a spirit of rotation and the removal of the 'position for life' philosophy” (Science, 2 June 2006). To this end, researchers at the unit will receive 5-year contracts that can be extended for 4 years.

The unit will be in the beachfront Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, which can house up to 80 research groups and includes other units, such as Barcelona's Municipal Institute of Medical Research, a Centre for Regenerative Medicine, an Institute of Advanced Technology and a 400-bed hospital. Primary researchers are currently being recruited, so if this sounds like the ideal place for you then prepare your curriculum vitae, and don't forget to pack your towel.