University of Exeter Awarded Major BBSRC Grant to Cultivate Future Bioscience Leaders
The University of Exeter has been awarded a significant share of a new round of funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) to support the next generation of bioscience researchers and innovators.
The South West Biosciences Doctoral Landscape Award (SWBio4), will provide funding to train doctoral candidates in essential and emerging areas of bioscience over five cohorts starting in October 2025. SWBio4 builds on three previous successful BBSRC-funded programs, with a continued vision to develop highly skilled leaders in research, innovation, science policy, and communication.
The University of Exeter’s role in SWBio4 reflects its expanding national influence in BBSRC-facing research, with particular strengths in fundamental molecular, cellular, and developmental biology, infectious disease, and food security. In addition to gaining critical scientific expertise, students will receive structured training in data and project management, science communication, innovation, research impact, and artificial intelligence, positioning them to address some of today’s most pressing global challenges.
“This funding will allow the University of Exeter to expand its role as a leader in advanced bioscience research,” said Professor James Wakefield, Project Co-Lead and Professor of Integrative Cellular Biology at Exeter. “By investing in the skills, expertise, and innovative mindset of our PGR researchers, we are not only advancing scientific discovery but also strengthening the Southwest UK’s position as a global hub for bioscience innovation. With robust governance and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, SWBio4 will offer enhanced access and training opportunities, ensuring that students from a range of backgrounds can thrive.”
With an emphasis on data-intensive, interdisciplinary PhD projects, SWBio4 aligns with the UK Science and Technology Framework to meet the needs of modern bioscience and industry. The program will provide students access to Exeter’s advanced facilities and research Institutes, including the Living Systems Institute, Environmental and Sustainability Institute, Global Systems Insititute and Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Doctoral candidates will also benefit from collaborations with non-academic partners, including industry giants and pioneering research organizations, as well as governmental partners, such a Dstl and Cefas, enhancing opportunities for networking, innovation, and hands-on experience through placement schemes.
