Molecules, cells and organisms research

We conduct structural and mechanistic studies of noncoding-RNAs (ncRNAs) and RNA-protein complexes (RNPs) involved in cell maintenance processes, and discover and develop seekRNA technology for precise gene editing.

Current projects relate to heart function, pain perception, neurodegeneration, lifespan and metabolic disorders, kidney function, and cancer. Our goal is to rapidly improve patient treatment.

Through our research into microbes we aim to develop new technologies that benefit society and the natural environment.

We focus on understanding how plants develop. In particular we aim to understand how plants create their amazingly symmetrical patterns of leaves and flowers, and study how plant organs take on their particular shapes.

Our research is dedicated to the understanding of the complexities of immune signalling in the brain.

Our labs are focused on protein structure and function, as well as protein design and engineering. We have a special interest in the mechanisms underlying gene transcription.

We use genetical, molecular biology, biochemical, biophysical, cell biology, genomics, functional genomics and bioinformatic methods to understand the acquisition, maintenance and dissemination of resistance genes in staphylococci.

The Nutritional Physiology Lab, led by Steve Simpson, studies the neural, physiological, ecological and evolutionary bases of animal behaviour.

We focus on finding the far red light limit to bioconversion by studying genetic, chemical and structural adaptations that allow organisms to function under filtered light environments.

Studying gene networks and how they affect development, focusing on plant shoot development and plant fertility.

Peppy is a Virtual Reality (VR) simulation for exploring the molecular forces which drive protein secondary structure. Peppy allows users to build, visualise and manipulate polypeptides within the six degrees of freedom that characterises the VR environment.

These simulations allow users to experience the outcomes of making mistakes or good design/execution. Each session generates unique datasets consistent with the process followed, incorporating authentic systematic errors.