• Photo of the new LMB building opened in 2012

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

Complete synaptic-resolution connectome of an insect larval brain

The groups of Marta Zlatic and Albert Cardona in the LMB’s Neurobiology Division have mapped the Drosophila larval brain, which contains 3016 neurons and 548,000 synapses and is the most complex brain ever mapped in its entirety.

Aggregation of proteins on cell surface triggers rapid uptake and degradation

Using a combination of light microscopy and biochemical assays, Harvey McMahon’s group, in the LMB’s Neurobiology Division, have identified aggregation-dependent endocytosis (ADE) as the pathway by which cells respond to surface perturbations.

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