Chair's Message

Welcome to the School of Biological Sciences!

I am delighted to welcome you to our vibrant community at the School of Biological Sciences, dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. We are among the top 40 in the QS World Rankings by subject, despite being a very young university and an even younger school with two decades of history.

At the heart of our School is a commitment to transformative education, fostering an enriching educational experience for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Our curriculum is designed to empower students with a robust understanding of biological sciences, while our faculty members are devoted to delivering high-quality instruction and mentorship. We take pride in our diverse range of courses that cater to the varied interests and aspirations of our students. Our mandatory internship program is designed to equip students for success in the industrial sector.  Whether at the undergraduate, graduate, or postdoctoral level, our goal is to nurture the next generation of scientific leaders who will shape the future of biological sciences. 

Our postgraduate offerings have been instrumental in shaping the future of research and industry leadership. Many of our PhD graduates have secured influential roles on the global stage, while our M.Sc (coursework) in Biomedical Data Science prepares graduates to meet the rising demand for experts in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science. Through these programs, we remain dedicated to nurturing the next generation of scientific innovators who will drive the future of biological sciences. 

Research excellence is a hallmark of our school, encompassing a wide array of disciplines within biology. Our focus on three key areas - Cell and Structural Biology; Plant and Agrobiology; and Development, Disease, and Target Discovery - positions us at the forefront of scientific inquiry. Our goal is to provide a conducive environment to tackle complex biological problems that require interdisciplinary collaborations, from the atomic level to identifying targets and solutions relevant for improving human health potential. Whether it’s understanding the intricate biology of plants to improve agricultural sustainability, unraveling the mysteries of cell structure to advance biomedical technologies, or identifying new molecular targets for combating diseases, our research spans a wide array of disciplines and biological scales. From the most fundamental building blocks to complex systems, we continuously push the boundaries of science and innovation. 

Central to these research themes is the integration of data science, which enhances our ability to make groundbreaking discoveries and address complex biological questions. Our state-of-the-art facilities and strategic collaborations with both local and international institutions ensure that our researchers have access to the best tools and knowledge to advance their work. We are also deeply committed to fostering partnerships with industry, government agencies, and other research organizations to translate our scientific discoveries into real-world applications. 

In addition to our core biological programs, we are excited to offer a degree program in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), complemented by a dedicated TCM clinic within our school premises. This unique initiative enriches our academic environment and fosters interdisciplinary learning, bridging traditional practices with modern scientific approaches.

At the core of our research excellence is our faculty, staff, and students, hailing from diverse backgrounds, and bringing a wealth of experiences and expertise from around the globe. Cultural richness not only enhances our learning environment but also promotes collaboration and innovation across disciplines. The faculty members share a common passion for discovering solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. 

Over the past two decades, our School has celebrated numerous achievements across our student body, faculty, and research teams. From groundbreaking discoveries to prestigious awards and grants, we’ve fostered leaders who are making a mark in academia and industry both locally and globally. 

Whether you are a student embarking on your academic journey, a research trainee honing your skills, or a faculty member contributing to our collective mission, we invite you to immerse yourself in the dynamic world of biological sciences at our school. Together, we will explore the wonders of life and contribute to the advancement of knowledge for the benefit of society.

Welcome to an inspiring and transformative experience at the School of Biological Sciences!