Three Faculty of Science subjects named in world’s top 150
We placed in the top 150 for Mathematics, Chemistry, and Pharmacy and Pharmacology.
Department of Life Sciences
We deliver excellence in research and teaching across the spectrum of Life Sciences, from biology, biochemistry and biomedicine to pharmacy and pharmacology.
Latest news
Read about the latest research news and press releases from the Department.
Chemically ‘stapled’ peptides used to target difficult-to-treat cancers
New drug discovery technology harnesses bacteria to do the hard work of medicinal chemistry by creating drug candidates and testing them inside living cells.
Police & Crime Commissioner visits University to explore research partnerships and student safety
Avon & Somerset PCC Clare Moody toured the IDSB and new Bath P-ACE, alongside a roundtable with the people keeping students safe on campus and in the city.
University of Bath alumnus awarded OBE in 2026 New Year Honours
Former Bath student, Dr Alexander Rhys, has been awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours 2026 for services to healthcare and the LGBTQ+ community.
Bath scientists design peptide ‘switch’ that keeps Parkinson’s protein in its healthy form
Researchers have engineered a molecule that prevents the clumping and build-up of Alpha-synuclein, a protein linked to Parkinson’s disease and other dementias.
Up to 1 in 4 vapes confiscated in schools contains spice - and these are pushed on social media
Up to one-quarter of vapes confiscated in secondary schools in England contain the dangerous synthetic drug ‘spice’, according to a new study led by Bath.
Our research
Our research spans a diverse range of areas, from drug discovery science and healthcare, to evolutionary biology and biodiversity.
Drug Targets, Cells and Developmental Bioscience
Uniting cell, developmental and molecular biology with pharmacology to reveal core biological processes and drive new approaches to treating health challenges.
Evolution, Biodiversity and Conservation
Uniting expertise in evolution, biodiversity and conservation to explore fundamental and applied questions about life’s origins, diversity and future.
Infection, Immunity and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
We advance infection, immunity and AMR research, exploring microbes to drive breakthroughs in public health, sustainability and the One Health agenda.
Life Science Education
We develop and share innovative, evidence-based teaching, support professional growth, strengthen our academic community, and promote educational research.
Medicines Discovery & Development
We advance global health with innovative medicines, integrating molecular design, structural biology, and novel delivery systems for safer, effective therapies.
Systems Medicine and Population Health
We advance drug delivery, precision health and medicine safety using innovative methods integrating bioinformatics and clinical data to improve equity and care.
Meet our researchers
Watch a series of videos from teams working across our research domains.
Hear directly from the people driving life sciences research at Bath. These short videos offer insight into their motivations, challenges, and the work that shapes their scientific journey.
Explore behind the scenes - into labs, fieldwork, and analytical processes - and gain a glimpse into our researchers' day-to-day lives working in their field.
Explore the researcher video gallery
Research with Impact
Our research is helping to change the world for the better. We work in partnership to help create a healthier, more sustainable and connected future for us all.
Stemming the flow of drugs into prisons
A multi-disciplinary team from Bath is developing the world's first portable device that detects synthetic drugs.
Study with the Department of Life Sciences
Find out about our undergraduate and master's courses, PhD degrees, and taught postgraduate courses for practising pharmacists.
Undergraduate degrees in Life Sciences
Learn more about our range of BSc and undergraduate master's courses, including biosciences, pharmacy, and pharmacology.
Master's courses in Life Sciences
We offer a range of master's courses including molecular biosciences, biotechnology and drug discovery.
Clinical Pharmacy Practice: programmes and courses for pharmacists
Part-time, practice-based learning for UK practising pharmacists at all career stages.
Postgraduate research degrees in Life Sciences
Find out about our PhD degrees, funding opportunities and how to apply.
Department of Life Sciences seminars
Find out more about the seminars taking place in the Department of Life Sciences.
View the schedule of our upcoming seminars
People, equality and diversity
We are firmly committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome a diverse population of both students and staff.
People in the Department of Life Sciences
Find a member of staff in the department.
Equality, diversity and inclusion in the Department of Life Sciences
The Department is firmly committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion.
School outreach activities
Details on how we engage with schools and communities.
Life sciences outreach activities
We offer a range of activities to local schools, colleges and communities.
Campus visits for schools and colleges
Explore our campus, meet staff and students, and learn what it's like to study at Bath.
About us
Five cross-disciplinary research domains are prioritised: biodiversity, evolution, food security, infection and antimicrobial resistance, and life course. These domains bridge across the Department, enabling new opportunities for wider collaboration and defining a new vision of Life Sciences.
Contact us
Ask us more details about our courses and research, and keep up-to-date through social media.