Welcome from the Head of School

Biology is the subject of the twenty-first century. At Reading we are at the forefront of this burgeoning subject; our overall objective is to further understanding of life and to communicate this biological knowledge so as to inspire and inform successive generations of graduates. More than 50 full-time academic staff are experts in a wide range of biological science subjects: biomedical researchers advance knowledge which underpins health and welfare development; evolutionary ecologists enable better understanding of the natural world and how it can be conserved; researchers in applied biology develop new technologies that underpin biologically-driven business (e.g. forensic biology, crop production, grassland management).

Our students leave University with degrees ranging from Biochemistry to Horticulture and take up key roles in society, in careers ranging from agricultural extension to drug discovery in the pharmaceutical industry. We have world-renowned strength in understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes, transmission and biology of flu virus, pre-eclampsia and pregnancy, statistical training and research, interaction of Rhizobium in legume nitrogen-fixing root-nodules, wildlife-management and conservation and floral biodiversity. To check this out, click on the links provided. Our most popular undergraduate degree programmes are Zoology and Biological Sciences, with Biomedical Sciences a developing strength and Horticulture a strong University tradition with a new programme connecting to local colleges. Our work is carried out on three main sites on the beautiful Whiteknights Campus, with a field site at Shinfield, and the Harris Garden, a mature botanical garden.

The University of Reading is a leading institution for the Biological Sciences, providing excellent degree programmes, and it's an exciting, friendly place to work. I look forward to meeting you soon.

Dr Mark Fellowes