Our research
Internationally important research across the spectrum of modern biology.
Our research spans the biological sciences - from ecology to biomedicine.
With wide-ranging expertise and strong industrial links, our research has a major influence in areas including environmental policy, tackling disease and biofuels.
We're committed to providing a supportive culture and strive to ensure our staff reach their full potential. We're exceptionally proud to have been awarded an Athena SWAN Gold award in recognition of our commitment.
First for research impact
(Times Higher Education ranking of the Research Excellence Framework 2014)
Top 10 for overall research performance
(Times Higher Education ranking of the Research Excellence Framework 2014)
Global challenges
Biological research has a critical role to play in securing a sustainable future. Our research contributes to solutions for three major global challenges:
Research strengths
To tackle these challenges, we channel our expertise in key areas of fundamental research:
- Biochemistry and Biophysics
- Bioinformatics and Mathematical Biology
- Cell and Developmental Biology
- Ecology and Evolution
- Immunology, Haematology and Infection (York Biomedical Research Institute)
- Industrial Biotechnology
- Microbiology
- Molecular and Cellular Medicine (York Biomedical Research Institute)
- Plant Biology


Impact and engagement
Our research has a major influence on policy, industry and public health.
We work in partnership with businesses of all sizes as well as policymakers and NGOs to translate our research into societal and economic benefits.
Highlights

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited the University to participate in the launch of BioYork.
Centres and initiatives
We are home to a number of centres conducting impact-directed research in specific areas of biological research:
University research themes
Interdisciplinary research is one of our strengths. We collaborate across the University's research themes – areas of research excellence that cross departmental boundaries. We have particularly strong partnerships within three themes:
Facilities
Our research is underpinned by excellent facilities including purpose-built laboratories and state-of-the-art equipment.
The Bioscience Technology Facility provides services in imaging and cytometry, metabolomics and proteomics, molecular interactions and biophysics, bioinformatics and genomic analysis.
We have access to specialist glasshouse and controlled environment facilities. The Horticulture team provide plant material for research and a range of services.

We have access to a range of specialist glasshouse and controlled environment facilities.
Publications
Search for research and browse publications in the York Research Database.
Explore publicationsResearch degrees
Push the boundaries of knowledge in our supportive and stimulating environment.
Study with usFellowships
Early career researchers at York benefit from a dynamic research culture and excellent facilities.
Join us as a fellowOur experts
Our department is home to a vibrant community of academic staff with broad-based expertise.
Our staff