Research within the School of Biological and Environmental Sciences
We're involved in a wide range of research that underpins many different subjects. These projects are conducted with a collaborative network spanning all continents and oceans.
Nearly 80% of our research was rated as world leading or internationally excellent in the 2021 UK Research Excellence Framework. The School also has the 13th strongest environmental science unit in the UK for research power.
We are split into multiple research groups that cover:
- ecology,
- evolution,
- genetics,
- neurobiology,
- entomology,
- geography,
- anthropology,
- palaeontology,
- biodiversity conservation,
- resource management.
We have the opportunity to undertake fieldwork, laboratory work, desk-based studies and independent research. I love the laboratory work.
Lily Galloway
BSc (Hons) Wildlife Conservation
Our research centres
The Liverpool Research Institute for Climate and Sustainability (LiRICS)
Explore LiRICS, LJMU’s hub for climate and sustainability research, connecting expertise to deliver practical solutions and global impact.
Research Centre in Evolutionary Anthropology and Palaeoecology (RCEAP)
Explore how our interdisciplinary research is advancing new perspectives on human evolution and palaeoecology.
Behavioural Ecology and Physiology Research Group (BEP)
Find out how our research explores the links between behaviour, physiology and the environment across a wide range of organisms.
Biodiversity and Conservation Group (BC)
Discover how our research at LJMU is helping to understand, protect and sustain biodiversity across the globe. The group is run by researchers inspired by the Earth’s biodiversity.
Geography and Environmental Science Research Group (GES)
Explore how our research addresses the environmental and societal challenges shaping a rapidly changing world.
Engagement and internationalisation
Our focus on major world issues. These include the ecosystem and human health, conservation, sustainability and climate change. We also study evolution as well as human and animal behaviour. This work has helped us to build strong partnerships with external organisations globally.
We are actively engaged with the main non-academic audiences for our research. This ranges from the general public (UK and international) to international governments and non-government bodies.
We have built strong links with a range of international partners, including:
- Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Program
- Orangutan Information Centre
- International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES)
- Zoological Society of London
- WWF
- UNEP/GRASP
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- World Health Organisation (WHO)
- European Space Agency (ESA)
In the UK, we work closely with organisations such as:
- Chester Zoo/North of England Zoological Society
- The Poulton Project
- Natural England
- The Centre for Fisheries & Aquatic Science (CEFAS)
- The Marine Management Organisation (MMO)
- The Environment Agency
- Natural Resources Wales
- Mersey Forest
- Wildlife Trust
- Local authorities
We also work with national government bodies, including:
- Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
- Environmental Agency
- Marine Scotland
- Natural Resources Wales
We have developed links with national governments in:
- China
- Uganda
- Indonesia
- USA