From discovery to impact
Our research has real-world impact on a global scale.
We are leading the search for solutions to some of the most pressing issues in biology, medicine and health.
Our size and scale means that we are uniquely structured so that our researchers can work across different areas for a multidisciplinary approach to biomedical and health science discoveries to solve global problems.
Our strong relationships with local NHS trusts, including the £59.1 million NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, plus industry and other faculties in the University mean we can share knowledge and facilities, helping us turn our discoveries into effective new therapies.
Major research and innovation themes
Biological sciences and biotechnology
We are leading the way in life sciences discovery research.
We have a comprehensive foundation of nationally recognised, cutting-edge technology platforms and are based in a single campus that integrates life sciences, physical sciences, technology and healthcare, bringing unique interdisciplinary, cross-sector opportunities.
In REF2021 we ranked fifth nationally (based on Grade Point Average) for Biological Sciences.
Interdisciplinary research areas include:
- Understanding microbial systems and host defence mechanisms
- Cellular organisation and communication
- Regulation of organ systems
- Development through the life-course
- Developing transdisciplinary opportunities
Medical sciences
We champion excellence and leadership across all clinical specialties.
As a partner in the pioneering integrated healthcare system in Greater Manchester, we are leading the way in biomedical research and innovation.
Clinical specialties include multimorbidity, cancer, immunity, inflammation and fibrosis, climate and health and rare conditions. Our work supports our commitment to social responsibility both in our local communities and beyond.
Interdisciplinary research areas include:
- Understanding basic mechanisms of pathophysiology
- Translation into experimental medicine
- Discovering and developing new diagnostics
- Discovering and developing new therapies
Health and care sciences
Benefitting the lives of populations across the world.
Our health and care science researchers are working to make positive impacts for health and social care outcomes locally, nationally and globally.
We have a strong reputation for applied health research. In REF2021 we were rated excellent in the unit of assessment for Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing & Pharmacy.
Interdisciplinary research areas include:
- Understanding the causes and consequences of health and care inequalities
- Global health development
- Mental health
- The health and social care system
- Digital health and data analytics
Key strengths
Heart and circulatory research at Manchester
We put people at the heart of our research to create real-world impact.
Together with regional health and care partners, we use our research to improve outcomes for patients and reduce the societal burden of heart and circulatory disease.
Postgraduate research and innovation
Postgraduate researchers are an important part of our vibrant research community.
We deliver a high-quality postgraduate training and research environment to help you become a future leader in biological, medical and health care sciences.
We offer a broad range of PhD projects in world-leading research groups and labs, with access to facilities, training and support through our Doctoral Academy.
Fellowship and talent development
Our Fellowship Academy offers career-defining opportunities to individual researchers.
We recognise the importance of nurturing and supporting future scientific leaders, so we have a dedicated resource to support and develop current and potential externally-funded fellows.
The Academy provides one-to-one advice and guidance on applications and preparation for fellowship interviews. You'll be supported by senior academics who sit on external panels, as well as those who hold fellowships themselves.
Technology platforms
Our facilities for research, innovation and technology development allow the interrogation of biology and disease from molecular interactions to whole organisms.
More than 1,000 researchers, spanning clinical, translational and basic science, use our highly-integrated technology platforms every year.
We continually invest in our equipment base, the expertise of our 50 dedicated technology specialists, and the academic oversight of each facility.
Impact and innovation
Making a difference in communities across the world.
We use our research expertise and pioneering spirit to discover, develop and create innovative solutions to the world's biggest problems and transform lives.
The Research Excellence Framework 2021 reflects the Faculty’s improvements in research quality and strength across all our Units of Assessment since the last assessment in 2014.
We are particularly proud of our performance within the Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy, which was ranked second overall nationally (Grade Point Average/GPA); and Biological Sciences which ranked fifth nationally (GPA).
Research support and services
Support for researchers
Our research and innovation community is fully supported by an integrated service that oversees research policy, delivery and governance, providing strategic guidance and practical help.
We can offer administrative and financial advice pre- and post-award, as well as strategic support and help with applying for an externally funded fellowship scheme.
In the research section
More about research
Useful information about research in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health.