Molecular Biology PhD – (Ph.D.)

PhD programmes are based on individual research projects that last 3 or 4 years, working with a specific academic supervisor (principle investigators). Applicants are specifically matched with a principle investigator based on their research interests and background.
Molecular biology is fundamental to almost all research that studies microbial, animal and plant systems. Many research groups in the Faculty of Life Sciences are concerned with clinically related subjects including cancer, embryology, development, movement disorders, arthritis, bacterial pathogenesis, tissue injury and its repair. The unifying theme examines how genes are expressed and how they interact with other molecules to exert a biological effect. Fundamental studies of the mechanisms which control gene expression involve investigation of transcriptional and post-transcriptional events. Likewise, the study of cellular processes formulates an understanding of the roles of genes in effecting cellular mechanisms and organisation in living systems. In vitro and in vivo investigations exploit state-of-the-art technologies to visualise the activity of genes and gene products in real time. Model organisms such as C. elegans, mice, Drosophila and Arabidopsis are also used to understand the biological function of individual genes. Gene discovery is closely linked with our strengths in Bioinformatics. Examples of the breadth and diversity of molecular biology within the Faculty include:
Transcription Factors & Signal Transduction
RNA Processing
Apoptosis & Cell Fate
Molecular Basis of Inherited Diseases
Cell & Tissue Morphogenesis
Cytoplasmic Inheritance
Transgenic Technologies
Biological Clocks