The structure of biological molecules and the complexes they form underpins most biological function. Therefore, structural biology is a key tool in modern biological discovery. We want to understand the structures of biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and lipids, and the complexes they form.
<p>Structural biology also encompasses understanding how those structures move, and incorporates the principles of molecular biology, biochemistry biophysics, modelling and simulation. Our research themes include:</p> <h3><a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/structural-biology/doc/structural-biology-research-themes/page/1">Proteostasis</a></h3> <p>Proteins perform a vast array of functions, underpinning every aspect of biology. Research in proteostasis seeks to understand the lifecycle of protein molecules: how they are made, folded, and degraded, and how disease results when these processes go wrong.</p> <h3><a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/structural-biology/doc/structural-biology-research-themes/page/2">Structural Virology</a></h3> <p>Viruses are obligate parasites that infect hosts in all kingdoms of life. Understanding the structure of viruses, viral proteins, and the complexes they form with host proteins is therefore critical in human and animal health, and in food security.</p> <h3><a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/structural-biology/doc/structural-biology-research-themes/page/3">Macromolecular Complexes</a></h3> <p>Researchers in Leeds are working to understand the structure and function of a diverse array of macromolecular complexes, including those involved in metabolism, transport, and antimicrobial resistance.</p> <h3><a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/structural-biology/doc/structural-biology-research-themes/page/4">Signaling and Cancer</a></h3> <p>A major interest of researchers in Leeds is to understand cellular signaling – the basic processes and communication that underpins normal cellular function – and how these signaling pathways become deranged in disease, especially cancer.</p>
<p>If you are interested in a product in this research area please search for our <a href="https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/research-degrees/doc/how-to-apply">research opportunities</a>. </p>
<p>For further information please contact the Graduate School Office<br /> e: <a href="mailto:https://biologicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/research-degrees">fbsgrads</a><a href="mailto:EMAIL@leeds.ac.uk">@leeds.ac.uk</a>, t: +44 (0)113 343 8186</p>
<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Linked project opportunities</h2>
<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Linked funding opportunities</h2>