Research at the School of Biosciences
Our research addresses critical global challenges in food security, nutrition, cancer, and both communicable and non-communicable diseases. By leveraging expertise in sustainable agriculture, molecular and cell biology, microbiology, food and nutrition science, and therapeutic biotechnology, we focus on key research themes, including:
1. Sustainable Food Systems
We combine multidisciplinary research approaches with advanced biotechnological tools, like machine learning, to enhance the sustainability of food systems. Our projects aim to diversify food and feed sources, advancing sustainable agriculture through agrobiodiversity conservation.
Subthemes:
- Advancing Postharvest Technology for Food Quality
- Innovating Agrifood Systems for Greater Efficiency
- Developing Climate-Resilient and Smart Crops
- Conserving and Utilising Agrobiodiversity
- Integrating Urban Agriculture for Sustainable Food Systems
- Leveraging Underutilised Crops for Food Security
- Harnessing Beneficial Microbes for Sustainability
- Creating Novel Functional Foods and Feeds
2. Advanced Nutrition for Lifelong Health
We examine the complex interplay between social factors, food environments, diet, and health across the lifespan through an interdisciplinary lens. Our research develops strategies to improve the availability of nutritious foods, reduce diet-related health inequalities, and enhance the nutritional quality of food supplies.
Subthemes:
- Advancing gastrointestinal health
- Exploring natural product and food-derived bioactive substances for health and disease management
- Promoting healthier dietary choices to prevent nutrition-related non-communicable diseases
- Transforming obesity intervention through innovative strategies
- Promoting health for future generations through improved maternal and child nutrition and well-being
3. Cutting-Edge Medical Biotechnology
We develop innovative treatments driven by advancements in biotechnology, leveraging insights from cell biology, immunology, and epigenetics. Our work centres on personalising medicine, aiming to improve disease detection and provide more effective therapies for patients.
Subthemes:
- Revolutionising Combinatorial Cancer Therapies
- Synergistic Aptamer-Peptide Innovations
- Advancing Vaccines, Biotherapeutic Peptides, and Enzymes
- Pioneering Disease Prevention for Sustainable Health
- Molecular Pharming and Beyond for Health Applications