Human Biology & Health

Biomedical Scientists study the function of human body and apply their scientific knowledge to the prevention and treatment of medical conditions. 

At Aberystwyth, you can study a broad curriculum of biological disciplines to develop a sound understanding of the main conditions that influence human health in the 21st century. These include physiology, biomechanics, microbiology, immunology, genetics and exercise science, all of which will furnish you with an appreciation of how diet, alongside physical activity and regular exercise, plays a significant role in maintaining health and well-being.  

  • Top 5 in the UK for Student Satisfaction in Biology (National Student Survey 2022)
  • Top 10 in the UK for Student Experience and Teaching Quality for the subject of Biological Sciences (Good University Guide 2024, The Times and Sunday Times)
  • Top 10 in the UK for satisfaction with Feedback for the subject of Biology (Guardian University League Table 2024)

Why study Human Biology & Biomedical Sciences at Aberystwyth University?

  • Our unique blend of subject matter will ensure that you have a multidisciplinary understanding of human health, including behaviour and lifestyle change. 
  • We place a particular focus on laboratory skills which will prepare you for work in the biomedical sciences. 
  • You will have access to extensive research and teaching labs equipped with the latest equipment, including bioimaging facilities, high-throughput DNA sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics and spectroscopic platforms. 
  • You will have use of state-of-the-art physiological, biomechanical and psychological equipment and laboratories. 

 

Employability

Studying biomedical science can lead to careers in a number of biomedicine, health and allied professions, clinical genetics laboratories, clinical trials and the regulatory sector, sales and marketing related to healthcare and diagnostic products, diagnostic pathology and clinical laboratories, education, research and development for the pharmaceutical industry. 

Students also pursue graduate study in the health professions to become a medical doctor, dentist and podiatrist amongst others. 

Facilities

Our facilities include an Advanced Microscopy and Bio Imaging lab, Movement Analysis Laboratory for Health and Performance, Physiology Laboratory for Health and Performance, Human Health & Performance Laboratory, and a Well-being and Health Assessment Research Unit (WARU).  

We have modern physiological, biomechanical and psychological equipment including body scanning for bone health and body composition determination, cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic analysers, high-performance treadmills, cycles and rowers, along with computer-based digital video and a force plate to allow sophisticated analysis of movement. 

Research

Research interests include exercise and health for the prevention of diabetes, as part of the rehabilitation programme for stroke patients and to prevent or reverse frailty and sarcopenia. This research includes the development, evaluation and implementation of wearable technology. 

Metabolomics research includes the application of metabolomics technology in food and nutrition research. In addition, genomics research includes the detection of metabolite biomarkers for lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and investigating possible links with the lung microbiome. 

The Well-being and Health Assessment Research Unit (WARU) is designed to translate health and well-being related research undertaken at Aberystwyth University into the general population and play a part in the formulation of governmental dietary and physical activity guidelines. WARU achieves this by fostering relationships with the local community to enable members of the general public to actively contribute to the research process by participating in our studies. 

Study or Work Abroad

Aberystwyth University offers every student the opportunity to study, volunteer or work in another country either for an academic year, a single semester, or a few weeks during your holidays.

Find more information on our Global Opportunities webpages.

Studying through the medium of Welsh

Aberystwyth University prides itself on being a bilingual University. As a leading Welsh university, we are proud to offer dedicated support services and Halls of Residence for Welsh-speaking students, encouraging the sense of community and the feeling of a home away from home. Qualifying students will automatically receive the University's Welsh-medium scholarships and can also apply for Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol scholarships. Find out more about our Welsh Medium Scholarships here.