Making a difference at the School of Biosciences

Our research has a real impact across many areas, addressing major global challenges, seeking to deliver new solutions with major economic, societal and environmental impact.

Impact highlights

Pioneering new ways of tackling bacterial contamination

Our research has helped to reduce contamination risk in industry on a global scale.

Protecting flagship endangered species in Borneo

Expertise in habitat mapping led to new conservation measures for the proboscis monkey and other key species.

Mini organs for cancer drug discovery

Changing the way we find new cancer treatments by bringing organoid techniques to drug development scale.

Okapi discovery leads to creation of national park

Genetic mapping contributed to the setting up of Lomami National Park and the first comprehensive okapi conservation strategy.

Ensuring freshwaters for the future

Managing energy transfers to drive sustainable freshwaters.

Protecting endangered species at a genetic level

Understanding genetic variation to ensure the future of endangered species.

Research highlights

Toxic ‘forever chemicals’ found in otters across England and Wales – new research

A group of synthetic substances known as “forever chemicals” because of their environmental persistence have been found in otters across England and Wales.

Polar bear gut synchrony damaged by mercury from their prey

High levels of mercury in the digestive systems of polar bears have been linked to decreased gut microbiota diversity, a key player in health, adaptation and immunity

Mycelium of the stinkhorn fungus Phallus impudicus growing from a wood block across soil.

New study to establish if fungi could help prevent landslips

Prof Lynne Boddy is working with the University of Strathclyde to investigate whether fungi’s soil-strengthening properties can mitigate against landslips

New concept of acute pancreatitis showing interactions between three different cell types

Radical new understanding of acute pancreatitis gives hope for more effective prevention of pancreatic cancer

Our research has transformed understanding of the mechanism underlying this potentially fatal disease

Scientists find strongest evidence yet of ‘migration gene’

Researchers combined satellite tracking and genome sequencing to pinpoint specific gene

30 year river study finds overlooked extinction effect

Global change is causing freshwater species to be lost twice as fast as in any other ecosystem, and new research, which studied Welsh rivers and streams for over 30 years, has found that the number of specialist invertebrates are dwindling.

Harnessing beneficial bacteria for a sustainable future

Researchers discover sustainable and natural alternative to man-made chemical pesticides

New genetic link for prostate cancer

Discovering the mechanisms that underlie prostate cancer

New understanding of an antibiotic could help tackle drug-resistant pathogen

A drug-resistant pathogen is one step closer to being tackled, thanks to new research from the University of Warwick and Cardiff University.

Image of a pregnant woman in winter cothing, outdoors

New research could explain why babies born during winter are at higher risk of developing mental health disorders

Winter and autumn babies are exposed to higher levels of maternal stress hormone

Image of a white tail eagle — White Tail Sea Eagle

Returning lost eagle species to Wales

Research taking place in Wales could see the return of lost eagle species to our countryside, bringing both conservation and economic benefits.

COVID-19 genome sequencing project gets major upgrade

Cardiff University-led supercomputing project receives fresh funding to go global

Airbourne Lab flying over Bornean jungle

Airborne laboratory uncovers vital elephant habitats from the sky

Scientists in aeroplanes uncover crucial information about elephant movements through Borneo, helping develop a plan to protect the endangered species.