​Plamena Markova is the Chief of International Relations at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Heidelberg, Germany. In this role, she leads EMBL's international collaborations and partnerships, enhancing the organization's global scientific engagement. ​

Before joining EMBL, Plamena served as a Policy Adviser at the European Parliament, where she specialized in global and EU affairs with a focus on research and innovation. She holds an LL.M. from King's College London, reflecting her strong legal and policy background.​

Plamena's extensive experience in international relations and policy-making positions her as a key contributor to global scientific initiatives. She also serves on advisory boards, such as the Michael Sars Centre Advisory Board at the University of Bergen, Norway, further showcasing her commitment to advancing scientific research and collaboration.