Department of Biology

Tackling global challenges through bioscience education and impactful research.

Study with us

We're a friendly and supportive academic community committed to sharing our expertise with the next generation of bioscientists.

Our courses span the full range of contemporary biological sciences including biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, biotechnology and biomedical science.

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Find scholarships and funding

Our research

Our world-class bioscience research addresses major global challenges.

Grounded in excellent fundamental science, our research spans the discipline and generates solutions for a sustainable green future and a healthy human population.

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Professor James Chong, Head of Department

1st in the Russell Group for 'Academic Support'

among universities included for molecular biology, biophysics and biochemistry in the 2024 National Student Survey.

Research excellence

Biological Sciences is ranked in the top 10 overall in the UK according to the Times Higher Education’s ranking of the latest REF results.

Culture of inclusivity

We are proud to have held an Athena Swan Gold award since 2014.

News

News

University of York builds green technology ties with India's Karnataka state

26 October 2026

The University of York has signed a Letter of Intent with the Department of Electronics, Information Technology and Biotechnology, Government of Karnataka to collaborate on research into the bioeconomy, agri-tech, and clean energy.

News

York and Bengaluru to tackle challenges of turning waste into clean energy

21 October 2026

Transforming waste into clean energy is at the heart of a new Memorandum of Understanding between the University of York and Garden City University.

News

Lost 'botanical hotspot' identified at University of York campus

16 September 2026

A forgotten landscape that once drew world-leading botanists to North Yorkshire could hold the key to restoring lost wildlife, according to new research.