Biological Sciences

Learn from enthusiastic and friendly academics with a real passion for their subject. You will be able to draw on their experience, gained from years of teaching and research in both biomedical science and evolutionary biology and ecology.

We emphasise cross-disciplinary and quantitative approaches to research. Our interests span the broad scope of modern biology, from individual molecules to global biodiversity and sustainability.

As a student in our School, you will benefit from access to our outstanding research and teaching facilities. These include the Cole Museum of Zoology and the Herbarium, which contain over 4,000 zoological specimens and around 400,000 plant specimens.

Additionally, we have a range of modern, well-equipped laboratories. These include a purpose-built imaging suite with confocal and super-resolution microscopes; dedicated microbiology laboratories for the study of bacteria and viruses; excellent computing facilities for computer-intensive work in phylogenetics, bioinformatics, protein structure, evolution and population biology; and controlled environment suites for the study of invertebrates and plants.

Overall, 91.4% of graduates from the School of Biological Sciences are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation (based on our analysis of HESA data (c) HESA 2024, Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22, includes all School of Biological Sciences responders).

Looking for postgraduate research opportunities?

Come to Reading for your PhD or professional doctorate and join a talented and diverse community of fellow researchers working to improve lives across the globe.