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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23 AprScientists have discovered a previously unidentified species of mosquito along the coast of Kenya and Tanzania with potential implications for malaria surveillance and control
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23 Apr
Glasgow to host UK pandemic prevention conference
Glasgow will host the UK’s pandemic preparedness conference on 23 April 2025, bringing together key experts from UK public health bodies, global health organisations, research institutions and life sciences companies -
08 Apr
Recovery of shark populations alters the behaviours of reef fishes
The return of apex predators like sharks can restore critical ecological balance to coral reefs, creating healthier ecosystems -
07 Apr
UofG researchers among Academy of Medical Sciences ‘emerging scientific leaders’
Two researchers from the University of Glasgow’s College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences have been awarded Springboard funding from the Academy of Medical Sciences as part of its largest-ever funding initiative for early-career researchers.