Our research
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We integrate research into the biology of life across a magnitude of scales, from single molecules through to whole organisms. Using cutting-edge and world-leading multi-omics technologies, our research answers impactful biological questions.
A key focus of our research is on delivering novel therapeutics with reduced toxicity to patients via an improved understanding of biological mechanisms.
Our work spans the atomic structure of molecules, signalling cellular pathways and the detection of abnormal cellular phenotypes.
Our challenges
Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology
We're bringing together biochemistry, cutting-edge technology and multi-omics approaches to study the chemistry of life. From proteins to complex biological systems, we provide vital links between both basic and translational research.
Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine
Bridging discovery science with therapeutic applications in cancer patients. Our mission is to optimise effective collaborations between scientists and clinicians to find better ways to detect and treat cancer.
Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Our internationally excellent, multidisciplinary research spans life, physical and clinical sciences, focused on investigating mechanisms of drug efficacy and toxicity. Our aim is to develop new and improve existing therapies for the benefit of patients.
Centres of Excellence

The Centre of Excellence in Long-acting Therapeutics (CELT)
The Centre of Excellence in Long-acting Therapeutics (CELT) aims to broaden understanding of long-acting medicines, create new interventions and accelerate the research and development of new therapies.
Case studies

Managing toxicity when treating cancer with next-generation drugs
We're researching the newest next-generation drugs, actual biological structures themselves that bind to and stimulate the immune system. These drugs will be used to treat patients with more advanced, malignant cancers.

Stratification of eye cancer patients into metastatic risk using the integrated Liverpool prognosticator tool
Together with our NHS supraregional referral centre for eye cancer, we have spearheaded the development and implementation of prognostic tests to predict metastasis likelihood in individual patients.

HPV-positive Head & Neck Cancer – Driving Change in Clinical Practice
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to 5% of all cancers worldwide. Since 2008 girls in the UK received HPV vaccination to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer. Research carried out in Liverpool provided evidence that HPV is also linked to a high incidence in head and neck cancer.
Facilities
Accreditations and partnerships
Our local and global partnerships provide vital support to our research activity.
Wellcome Trust
The Wellcome Trust exists to improve health by helping great ideas to thrive. Wellcome is an independent global charitable foundation.
Liverpool Health Partners
Liverpool Health Partners' mission is to improve population health outcomes and economic productivity in Cheshire and Merseyside.
National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)
NIHR is the nation's largest funder of health and care research and provide the people, facilities and technology that enables research to thrive.
Athena SWAN Silver Award
We're proud to hold the Athena SWAN Silver Award, recognising our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.