Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council

The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) is a major funding agency for academic research and training in the life sciences in the United Kingdom. It is one of the seven Research Councils that work together as Research Councils UK (RCUK). The BBSRC was established in 1994 by the merger of the Agricultural and Food Research Council and the Biotechnology Directorate of the Science and Engineering Research Council.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the BBSRC is to promote and support high-quality basic, strategic, and applied research and related postgraduate training relating to the understanding and exploitation of biological systems. The council aims to:

• Advance knowledge and technology in the fields of biotechnology and biological sciences.
• Support the development of new technologies and methodologies.
• Foster collaboration between academia, industry, and other stakeholders.
• Enhance the impact of research on society and the economy.

Research Areas

The BBSRC funds research in a wide range of areas within the biological sciences, including but not limited to:

• Genomics and Proteomics
• Systems Biology
• Synthetic Biology
• Plant Science
• Animal Health and Welfare
• Food Security
• Bioenergy and Industrial Biotechnology

Funding and Grants

The BBSRC provides funding through various schemes, including:

• Responsive Mode Grants: These are open to any research proposal within the BBSRC's remit.
• Strategic Longer and Larger Grants (sLoLa): For ambitious research projects that require significant funding.
• Industrial Partnership Awards: To support collaboration between academic researchers and industry.
• Fellowships: To support early-career researchers in developing their independent research careers.

Impact and Innovation

The BBSRC places a strong emphasis on the impact of research. It encourages researchers to consider the potential applications and benefits of their work for society and the economy. The council supports innovation through initiatives such as:

• The BBSRC Innovator of the Year Award
• The Follow-on Fund for commercialization of research
• Collaborative Training Partnerships with industry

Governance and Structure

The BBSRC is governed by a Council, which is responsible for setting the strategic direction and policies of the organization. The Council is supported by various committees and panels that provide expert advice on specific areas of research and funding.

International Collaboration

The BBSRC actively engages in international collaboration to enhance the global impact of UK research. It participates in joint funding initiatives and partnerships with international research organizations and funding bodies.

Also see

• Research Councils UK
• Biotechnology
• Biological Sciences
• Genomics
• Synthetic Biology