Mission Statement

Our mission is to conduct world-leading research to understand how life works and evolves from molecule to biome and to train outstanding scientists who are ready to address the greatest threats faced by our planet. Through our actions we seek to protect and improve life on earth for the benefit of all.

Bringing together outstanding scientists, educators, professional support staff and students we work across all scales of life to conserve terrestrial and aquatic systems and the biodiversity they sustain; understand disease and advance health in animals, plants and humans; encourage life-long learning for all and to make positive impact for a sustainable, healthy and equitable future.

In support of our mission, we:

• Take a people-first approach, prioritising the well-being, needs and interests of all members of the School of Biology.
• Offer a research culture and infrastructure that allows researchers to conduct world-leading biological research for the benefit of all.
• Deliver innovative and engaging educational programmes that inspires learners to develop the knowledge and skills that will enable them to tackle global challenges.
• Prioritise an inclusive and equitable environment that enables everyone to thrive and develop to their full potential, recognising the contributions of all.

We enable our mission by:

1. Facilitating academics to work across buildings containing the facilities, expertise, technologies and professional support services necessary for their outstanding research and teaching.
2. Providing a home to internationally recognised multidisciplinary research centres and institutes, facilitating scientific discussion and collaboration without barriers.
3. Fostering opportunities for academics to innovate, transfer their knowledge and deliver solution-based research to enhance the impact our research has on the global community.
4. Supporting all colleagues to deliver research-oriented education and recognising the importance of leadership from outstanding education-focussed academics.
5. Creating opportunities for staff and students to collaborate within and beyond their disciplines, promoting research and education that spans traditional disciplinary boundaries.
6. Embedding sector-leading EDI training, policies and practices at the heart of all our activities and acting with integrity, ethics and sustainability to the fore.
7. Valuing the critical contributions our professional service teams make and through support for their development.
8. Ensuring the professional development of all staff and students through mentorship and role- and discipline-specific training tailored to their research, teaching and career progression needs.
9. Recognising and rewarding collegiality and the achievements (big and small) of all members of the School of Biology community
10. Leading by our actions and through the embodiment of our Code of Behaviours.

Management structure

org chart

Strategic plan

The School’s Strategic plan 2021-2026 (PDF) addresses our mission’s capabilities and opportunities over the next five years to enhance our strong international reputation for excellent research and teaching in a fair, equal and diverse environment for students and staff alike.

2027 - 2032 Strategic plan is under development