Research

The aim of our research in the Biomedical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering research division is to extend life, ease pain, combat disease and enhance the healthy state. To achieve this aim, our studies are directed at understanding how both the healthy human body functions and how it fails as a consequence of the many ailments which can assail it.

At Reading, we have already contributed significant knowledge to this field, and are continuing to extend understanding on multiple aspects of human health. By exploiting a range of scientific approaches, encompassing a variety of disciplines, we are tackling modern-day health problems from numerous directions.

Research within the division is central to the University's interdisciplinary research strengths in health and food, and is thus key in driving these major themes. 

Read about the University's Agriculture, Food and Health research theme

We are engaged in exploring many common health problems of relevance to the modern world. Such health issues include ageing, cancer, diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease, with emphasis on areas such as heart physiology, haemostasis and thrombosis.

We are also investigating innovative therapies for muscular dystrophy, factors controlling fertility, and current and emerging transmissible diseases including foot and mouth disease, haemorrhagic fever, intestinal infections and MRSA.

Our aim is to learn all that we can about the mechanisms governing such diseases and to apply the knowledge that we generate to enable prevention, alleviation and/or cure.

The brain is probably the most complex structure in the universe. The research we are carrying out is focused on understanding the brain and designing technology to improve longevity and health. We are working to design assistive and rehabilitative devices suitable for managing diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.

The core of biomedical engineering is to create practical solutions. Our research allows us to invent and improve innovative medical technology – both for the management of conditions and to counteract the effects of illness, injury and age. By doing this, we aim to increase quality of life and ensure that healthcare systems of the future are not put under undue strain.