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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24 JunScotland’s first Total-Body PET scanner is now operational at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, benefitting patients locally and nationally, and helping to speed up diagnosis, treatment and clinical trials across the UK
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18 Jun
New research discovery could advance drug treatments for diabetes and obesity
Scientists have unlocked new details on important ‘receptor’ proteins –promising targets for the creation of novel drugs for metabolic conditions ranging from diabetes to obesity and inflammatory disorders. -
18 Jun
Good cognitive health lowers risk of Alzheimer’s disease later in life
People with better cognitive health are at lower risk of later Alzheimer’s disease, but genetics can interfere with this, according to a new study -
17 Jun
Landmark patient trial to use genetic testing to personalise treatments
A major new study launching in Scotland aims to show how a simple genetic test could help doctors personalise treatments – boosting medication response and reducing harmful side effects.