Each organism, whether animal, plant or microbe, is defined by its genome and this same information can be used by us to investigate wide ranging biological phenomena and even alter biology itself through the production of transgenic organisms. Subject Overview Comparative genomics represents the analysis of DNA sequences from different organisms, allowing us to understand how individuals differ or species have diverged. This approach underpins studies ranging from evolutionary and population biology to the analysis of changes that result in cancer development or the identification of critical genetic factors relevant to personalised medicine. Functional genomics is the application of DNA sequence data to determine how organisms and specific processes work, whether through the identification of specific genes, monitoring gene expression globally (transcriptomics and proteomics) or facilitating the direct analysis and manipulation of specific genes and proteins. Our research aims to understand how biological systems are functionally integrated within the context of the whole organism using the most recent advances in genomic and post genomic technologies. We have a proven track record and leading expertise in the use of Next Generation DNA sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics, digital and array-based transcriptomics, proteomics, computational modelling, whole organism and cell imaging, conventional physiology and molecular biology and classical genetics. These are combined to unravel the evolution, physiology, biochemistry and genetics of complex biological systems. Our research programmes include: the wheat genome sequence; genomic analysis of pathogens; environmental microbiology and virology; gene expression, regulation and cell signalling mechanisms; ageing and animal physiology; molecular toxicology; bionanotechnology. Biological Sciences (Functional and Comparative Genomics) MPhil - 2 years Biological Sciences (Functional and Comparative Genomics) PhD - 4 years

Many PhD scholars trained at Liverpool in the methods and ideas of functional and comparative genomics research have gone on to post-doctoral research, and to develop careers in academica as tenured academic staff in the UK, USA and other countries. Scientific researcher and advisory posts within government and health services organisations have also provided rewarding careers. Others have taken their skills into industry in the biomedical and biotechnology sectors with careers in both small start-up companies and large multi-national corporations. The research and personal skills developed during doctoral research are also valuable in a very wide range of professional careers.