• Photo of the new LMB building opened in 2012

Applications for the 2026 LMB PhD places are now open. Deadline is 2 December 2025.

About Us

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is a research institute dedicated to the understanding of important biological processes at the levels of atoms, molecules, cells and organisms. In doing so, we provide knowledge needed to solve key problems in human health.

Our scientists tackle fundamental, often difficult and long-term research problems. The LMB has made revolutionary contributions to science, such as pioneering X-ray crystallography and electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) to determine protein structures, the sequencing of DNA and the development of monoclonal antibodies. Twelve Nobel Prizes have been awarded for work carried out by LMB scientists.

The LMB also promotes the application and exploitation of our research findings, both by collaboration with existing companies and the founding of new ones, helping to advance medical research and the translation and application of knowledge.

The LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both young and established researchers, with state-of-the-art facilities and a unique scientific culture. The LMB has always been very diverse, with a truly international outlook. We currently employ men and women from over 50 countries, and LMB alumni work in research organisations across the world.

Insight on Research

Protein sorting in the Golgi: Should I stay or should I go?

Providing order amongst constant cargo traffic: Sean Munro’s group in the LMB’s Cell Biology Division and John Briggs’ group at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, identify how GOLPH3 enables COPI vesicles to distinguish between Golgi resident and proteins bound for the endoplasmic reticulum.

Syn57 represents a new chapter in the genetic code of life

In a significant rewriting of the genome, Jason Chin’s group in the LMB’s PNAC Division have synthesised E. coli with just 57 codons, freeing seven codons which could be used to introduce non-canonical amino acids and produce novel polymers.

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Latest Publications


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