Two students using life sciences laboratory equipment and a computer

Department of Life Sciences

Improving the lives and wellbeing of everyone around us.

About the department

Education at all stages

We educate healthcare scientists at all levels up to consultant clinical scientists.

Our degree programmes include Human Physiology, Biomedical Science and Healthcare Science.

We support and enhance our students’ employability through regular activities and events, including working with local NHS Trusts.

Investing in facilities

To support research and learning, the Faculty of Science and Engineering has invested over £50 million in facilities in the last ten years.

Our students and researchers are based in the new Dalton Building, where they can use specialist laboratories, workshops and equipment for:

  • advanced molecular techniques, genomics and transcriptomics

  • tissue culture, co-cultures, complex cell models and stem cells

  • microscopy and advanced imaging systems and techniques

  • evaluation, measurement and biomarker discovery systems

  • physiology analyses; bone, muscle tissue, brain and whole body imaging and scanning systems

  • biomechanics, gait and movement analyses 

  • experiments on human responses to lifestyle factors and ageing

External partners

We have strong links to the NHS nationally and locally with hospitals and clinicians across Greater Manchester. We also work closely with industry partners and universities at local, national and international levels. 

Our connections give our students and researchers opportunities to collaborate, learn and solve critical challenges related to health and active ageing.

Reputation and accreditations

We’re committed to delivering an excellent learning environment, and opportunities to develop skills and build networks.

We rank highly for student satisfaction and we’re accredited by several professional bodies:

  • Institute of Biomedical Science

  • Health and Care Professions Council

  • Royal Society of Biology

  • National School of Healthcare Science

Supporting inclusion

We value equality, diversity, inclusion and wellbeing. We’re the second department in the Faculty to achieve the Athena Swan Bronze Award.

Athena Swan logo

Study with us

I lead a team of dedicated academics who deliver excellent education and impactful research. We work with other higher education institutions and industry partners, forming collaborations that are greater than the sum of their parts.
Carol Ainley, Head of Department
I lead a team of dedicated academics who deliver excellent education and impactful research. We work with other higher education institutions and industry partners, forming collaborations that are greater than the sum of their parts.
Carol Ainley, Head of Department

Our research

We use a systems biology approach to investigate molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms that influence health and active ageing across the lifespan. Our broad, cross-disciplinary research allows us to work with colleagues across the Faculty, University and beyond, including national and international collaborators on funded research.

Our recent research projects include:

Contact information