School of Biomedical Sciences

The School of Biomedical Sciences represents one of the largest concentrations of biomedical research and teaching activity in Europe. We have 200 academic staff, over 300 postgraduate students and 2,100 undergraduate students based on three campuses.

Our research spans the biosciences, with particular strengths in: developmental neurobiology; biophysics and cell biology, including cell dysfunction in cancer and genetic diseases; pain and its treatment; the ageing process, from the molecular basis of disease through to the discovery of effective novel therapies; environmental effects on human development and health; and drug discovery, delivery, mode of action and detection.

The prestigious Medical Research Council (MRC) funds centres of excellence led by, or involving, our School in Developmental Neurobiology; Asthma & Allergy; Environment & Health; and Neurodegeneration. King’s stem cell laboratory was the first in the UK to bank a human embryonic stem cell line.

We host a Wellcome Trust-funded Centre for Biomolecular Spectroscopy, operating at the interface between basic and clinical science. King’s Drug Control Centre is running the anti-doping facility for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, alongside the global pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline. We encourage entrepreneurship and collaboration with industry, with demonstrable successes including our award-winning spin-out company Proximagen.

On joining the School, all postgraduate students complete a comprehensive induction programme, specific to their research or taught programme. Students also have access to the Graduate School Researcher Development Programme. Both research and taught master’s students undertake tailored scientific and career development programmes.

Our modern, well-funded laboratories cater for the full range of research on offer. Our work is also supported by a range of state-of-the-art core research facilities including mass spectrometry, genomics and imaging units. Dedicated study and social spaces for postgraduate students include the newly refurbished lounges on Guy’s and Waterloo campuses. As part of a large multi faculty university, we have excellent social and sporting facilities, but a key attraction is our central London location, with our three campuses along the River Thames being located in the cultural and social heart of the city.

We offer a wide range of studentships, bursaries and scholarships funded by King’s Graduate School and many prestigious external sources including the UK Research Councils (MRC, BBSRC and EPSRC), charities such as the British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK and the Wellcome Trust, and our industrial collaborators.