Cellular, molecular and physiological biology

We use a powerful combination of genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology to answer questions about life and the biology of diverse organisms.

Research topics

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is diverse, incorporating cell biology, structural biology, chemistry, enzymology, physiology and genetics. In these overlapping areas of expertise, biochemistry involves the application of multiple techniques to answer important questions. Our research explores the chemical processes within and related to living organisms and focuses on processes happening at a molecular level.

Computational biology

Computational biology combines tools from computer science with questions at the frontiers of biology. Our research spans sophisticated computational and evolutionary analysis of genomes, RNA and proteins, through to the modelling of molecules, evolutionary processes, populations and ecosystems.

Infectious disease

Infectious disease research focuses on the microorganisms that cause sickness in humans, plants and animals. This research addresses biological processes in a wide range of disease-causing microorganisms, including bacterial, viral and protozoan pathogens. We use a variety of techniques, ranging from microbiology to modern methods of genomics and structural analysis.

Plant molecular science

Our research focuses on the mechanisms that determine plant traits with agricultural, environmental, nutritional and health benefits. We study gene function and the signalling pathways controlling plant development and plant response to the changing environment. Our interests include; flowering time regulation, nitrogen regulation of plant growth and development, symbiotic nitrogen fixation, fruit development, ripening and colour, and resistance to disease.

To find out more about plant molecular research science, visit the Joint Graduate School in Plant and Food Science.

Structural biology

We study the three-dimensional structure of biological macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids, at atomic resolution. Our research covers a wide range of fundamental and applied systems, focusing on understanding chronic and infectious diseases at a molecular level. Our research aids in the development of compounds with the therapeutic potential to alleviate disease. It includes the design and development of novel anticancer agents and the design of novel antibiotics targeting antimicrobial resistance and viral infections.