Biology

We invite proposals for MPhil and PhD research projects in our three main research areas of biodiversity and conservation, agri-environment, and microbiology. Our Biology PhD students play a very important role in our active research portfolio.<br/><br/>We supervise MPhil and PhD students whose interests match the expertise in these areas of biology:<br/><br/>Ecology and conservation:<br/>Our Ecology and Conservation Research Group works to understand patterns observed in nature - species and habitats. This often includes anthropogenic effects.<br/><br/>We collaborate with a variety of organisations concerned with species and habitat conservation, including statutory responsibility. We work with research partners and conservation practitioners from the UK and across the globe.<br/><br/>Our research covers:<br/>•genetics<br/>•conservation<br/>•human-wildlife interactions<br/>•ecology<br/><br/>Biological, clinical and environmental systems modelling:<br/>The Biological, clinical and environmental systems modelling group focuses on analysing the structure and dynamics of complex biological and clinical systems. We have a specific interest in investigating spatially and temporally heterogeneous processes in biology. We are driven by practical problem solving through the use of modelling.<br/><br/>Applied and Environmental Biology:<br/>We conduct research on organisms and processes of commercial and environmental importance. Our experimental approaches include:<br/>•genomics<br/>•molecular biology<br/>•biochemistry<br/>•physiology<br/><br/>Some examples of the commercial applications we develop include:<br/>•natural products discovery<br/>•creation of novel antimicrobials and biopesticides<br/>•sustainable methods of reducing food spoilage<br/>•microbes involved in biofuel production<br/>•uses of microbes in bioremediation of polluted environments<br/><br/>Learn more about the Applied and Environmental Biology group.<br/><br/>You can find more information about staff specialisms on the School of Biology website.<br/><br/>We invite you to propose your own research topic, or you can follow one of the projects suggested on the School of Biology website. If you wish to develop your own research topic, you are recommended to contact a potential supervisor at the School of Biology to develop your ideas, before submitting your formal application via the Applicant Portal.<br/><br/>You will benefit from two supervisors from our research community. You are encouraged to present your research results at our annual Postgraduate conference. Youll also benefit from training in a wide range of transferable skills, such as statistics and web design, through the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering (SAgE) Graduate School.<br/><br/>Industry:<br/>The School of Biology has good contacts with industry and hosts seminars and workshops, some of which are attended by visiting professors from industry. Biology students have the opportunity to participate at national and international conferences and to supplement their income by undertaking undergraduate laboratory demonstrating.