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School of Natural and Environmental Sciences

Improving lives and livelihoods through world-leading research and teaching across the natural sciences.

We improve lives and livelihoods through world class research and teachingof science. We pioneer training and research which impacts society from our local area to all corners of the planet. 

Our school provides a distinctive breadth of subjects and specialisms including undergraduate courses in:

Our teaching excellence feeds into a fantastic array of undergraduate degrees in a variety of subjects, while our ground-breaking research has led to:

  • new treatments for ovarian cancer,
  • the discovery of the world's deepest-living fish,
  • enzymes which promote deep cleaning,
  • the development of pest-resistant crops.

We also offer a range of postgraduate taught and postgraduate research opportunities across our full breadth of subjects. 

So whether you want to develop a valuable toolkit of transferable skills from our cutting-edge degree courses or to transform your research career, we are here to support and inspire you.

Our latest news

Rare wild goats in Northumberland found to be genetically unique

New research shows Cheviot goats are one of the UK’s most genetically distinct goat populations.

What can a fish’s body shape tell us about its life in the ocean?

Why are tuna shaped like torpedoes, while reef fish are often tall and flat? Why do some deep-sea fish have enormous eyes, while others have mouths that point sharply upwards or downwards? Dr Isabel Smallegange and Victoria Dixon tell us more.

Trait choice and selection key to helping corals survive heatwaves

Assisted evolution could help corals survive future heatwaves, but careful trait choice and strong repeated selection will be needed for it to be effective.