Fundamentals of Life
Fundamentals of Life is about pioneering blue-sky, curiosity-driven research to develop a full understanding of how living things work both in themselves and within their ecosystems.
Our Ambition
Harnessing our international standing in bioscience discovery research we aim to be a world leading centre breaking down siloed approaches, allowing us to develop novel research areas. We promote a disease-agnostic, interdisciplinary, holistic approach focusing on fundamental mechanisms that underpin life. This will allow transformational advances in pathways that are key drivers in resilience responses to stress challenges and disease.
Our Team
Our Strengths

Fundamental discoveries
World-leading fundamental research discoveries of molecular and macroscopic pathways for cell physiology, health and disease.

Cutting edge analyses
Use of cutting-edge analyses and tools from the molecular/cellular level to the whole organism level.

Understanding the cellular lifespan
Deciphering mechanistic and dynamic responses to stress and change.

Improving brain health
Pioneering a fundamental framework for understanding all main areas of human disease (brain health and neurodegeneration, infection/immunity, cancer, cardiovascular).
Our Impact
Fundamentals of Life research in the College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences is tackling key global issues facing our planet. Learn more about our journey.
Together, For the World
Our College is investing significantly in all job families as we grow towards our future. Explore opportunities for academic and professional service roles to see how you can be part of our world changing future.
- Our Ambition, Your Future
- Our Strengths, Your Path
- Our Impact, Your Community
Our World, Your Future
Collaboration within our community is at the heart of our College Futures. Our interwoven themes provide a welcoming supportive community as well as ample opportunity for collaboration. Explore our College Futures to discover how we're making a difference, together.

Advanced Diagnostics and Therapeutics
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Our Schools
Latest College News
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25 MarResearchers at the University of Glasgow have secured industry sponsorship to accelerate the pre-clinical development of a novel precision therapy which may one day offer a new treatment option for patients living with cancers such as Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) and Neuroblastoma
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19 Mar
Four out of five males in prison have a history of head injury
New research has found that four out of five males in prison have a history of significant head injury, with many having been exposed to repeated head injuries over time -
17 Mar
University of Glasgow attends pivotal Global Sustainable Transition Summit
Professor Iain McInnes, Vice Principal and Head of the College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, represented the University of Glasgow at the Sustainable Markets Initiative flagship ‘Terra Carta Roundtables & Exhibition’, held at Hampton Court Palace on the 10th and 11th March 2025. -
17 Mar
UofG Partner MR CoilTech Wins Innovative Collaboration Award
The University of Glasgow’s Living Laboratory programme is proud to celebrate its partner, MR CoilTech, for winning the Innovative Collaboration Award at the 2025 Scotland’s Life Sciences Awards.