Research in the School of Biological Sciences is diverse and spans animal, human, plant and microbial science, with the potential for significant impacts on societal challenges including health, disease, conservation and the environment. The School aims to be a leader in delivering real-world benefits through our research and is working to create, value and support the space needed to deliver these impactful outcomes.
Bioscience Impact Team
The Bioscience Impact Team is embedded in the School of Biological Sciences to support researchers in maximising the benefits of their work to society. Our Impact Facilitators work closely with researchers across Departments, with Research Theme Leads, Knowledge Exchange facilitators and with the School Senior Leadership Team to deliver a joined-up approach to research impact which is in line with the wider University strategy.
Through close connections to existing initiatives across Cambridge, the Bioscience Impact Team serves as a central hub for researchers looking to engage with partners in Industry (Milner Therapeutics Institute, Cambridge Academy of Therapeutic Sciences), Entrepreneurship (Cambridge Enterprise), Policy (Cambridge Centre for Science and Policy) and the Public (Central and Departmental Public Engagement Coordinators), all of which can significantly contribute to the research impact pipeline.
Funding
Researchers in the School of Biological Sciences have access to a range of internal funding calls to support and develop impact in line with their research programmes, such as:
- Impact Acceleration Accounts - knowledge exchange and impact activities, including technology transfer and commercialisation, partnerships with industry, and policy engagement.
- Flexible Talent Mobility Account - placements to increase porosity between sectors.
- Public Engagement Funding - aimed at innovative public engagement with research activities.
- Cambridge Academy of Therapeutic Sciences - funds for translational research and knowledge exchange
- Cambridge Enterprise - internal and external funding opportunities to support early stage ideas
Impact Case Studies
Through innovative research, our scientists have uncovered new insights into the functioning of the human body, have opened up new possibilities for the treatment of genetic diseases and the development of new, more sustainable food sources. Biological Sciences research has also provided crucial insights into the natural world, leading to the preservation and protection of endangered species and the development of new methods for sustainable agriculture.
