Our goal is to understand the fundamental biochemistry and cell science that underlies normal development and that goes awry during human diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer disease, Fanconi anaemia, Kallmann syndrome, heart disease and ischemia. Our research programmes, which are generously funded through grants from the BBSRC, EPSRC, Wellcome Trust, Cancer Research UK, Royal Society and other charities, span disciplines from essential protein biology and glycobiology to cell signalling and gene regulation. Our investigators are involved in translational research for applications in drug discovery and tissue engineering. Subject Overview The key principle behind our research is the recognition over the last decade that to elucidate cell, organ or organismal function in health and disease requires an integrated approach utilising the best available cutting-edge technologies. Notably, we have developed an unparalleled range of core facilities in our department, including: the Protein Function Group, equipped with 13 mass spectrometers for quantitative proteomics and metabolomics; the Centre for Glycobiology, which has pioneered the development of many technologies in the field of glycomics (see Nature Protocols 2009, 2010, 2010); and, the Centre for Cell Imaging, with expertise in advanced live cell imaging using both fluorescence and luminescence-based systems. This housesthe first photothermal microscope in the UK for nanoparticle-based single molecule imaging. We offer intense PhD and post-doctoral training programmes withexposure to a wide range of technologies. Much research is multidisciplinary with strong collaborative links to other IIB Departments and also to physical, chemical and clinical sciences across the Liverpool campus. PhD studentships are also supported by national and international collaborations, including joint PhD study programmes (e.g. with RIKEN, Japan and A*Star, Singapore). Recent research highlights from BCB students and staff over the last two years include publications in Science, Molecular Cell, Developmental Cell, Nature Protocols, EMBO Journal, Oncogene, Journal of Cell Biology and Journal of Biological Chemistry. Many of our students are recognised for the role they play in communicating their science to the wider community and have won awards including the 2011 BSCB Writing Prize. On completing their PhDs many of our students take competitive post-doctoral positions in the UK or abroad, or elect career paths in the NHS, government or the commercial sector. Biological Sciences (Biochemistry) MPhil - 2 years Biological Sciences (Biochemistry) PhD - 4 years

Diverse career pathways are opened up by a PhD in the fields of biochemistry and cell biology. Many continue their careers into academic research, initially as postdoctoral research fellows for further training, and ultimately to permanent academic posts where they undertake research and teaching. Many of our alumni in this track are now Lecturers and full Professors in the UK and also international Universities. There are also opportunities for PhD-trained researchers in the government sector which includes research institutes, government departments, the health services, forensic science and environmental agencies. There is also an increasing demand for biochemists and cell biologists to contribute to the public understanding of science as journalists and information officers, especially in view of ethical and environmental issues raised by developments in molecular biology and biotechnology. At PhD level or after further postdoctoral research, other graduates choose to become research scientists in commercial sectors that actively recruit in the biochemistry/cell biology fields; these include the pharmaceutical, food, biotechnology, biomedical, water and agricultural industries. Our alumni work in large businesses such as AstraZeneca and BP, hi-tech industries like instrumentation suppliers such as Waters Corporation, smaller biotechnology companies such as Horizon Discovery, and also overseas (e.g. Qatar).