MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
One of the world's leading research institutes, our scientists are working to advance understanding of biological processes at the molecular level - providing the knowledge needed to solve key problems in human health.
LMB staff shared their artistic flair during the annual LMB Art Show, with exhibits including hand-made jewellery, paintings, photographs, cross stitch and crafts on display in the LMB atrium for all to see and enjoy for two weeks in July.
A wide range of creativity was on show from the 22 exhibitors who took part in this year’s event: paintings included acrylic and water colour, whilst arts and crafts included pottery, models, furniture, metalworking tools and musical instruments.
On Saturday 17th June the LMB held a spectacular Open Day as part of the MRC Festival of Medical Research, welcoming over 2000 visitors to the Lab. Over 300 LMB scientists and support staff gave up their time to offer visitors an exciting day of family-friendly hands-on activities, tours of the laboratories and facilities, and talks about the LMB’s ground-breaking research.
Sjors Scheres, a Group Leader in the LMB’s Structural Studies Division, has been elected as a Member of the European Molecular Biology Organisation (EMBO).
Founded in 1964 to promote molecular biology in Europe, EMBO elects new members annually on the basis of scientific excellence and outstanding research contributions. The organisation promotes excellence in life sciences by supporting talented researchers, and stimulating the exchange of scientific information.
Anne Bertolotti, group leader in the LMB’s Neurobiology Division, has been elected a Fellow of the UK Academy of Medical Sciences for her contribution to understanding protein quality control systems and their therapeutic manipulations.
The Academy represents the diverse spectrum of medical sciences – from basic research through clinical application to healthcare delivery. Their mission is to promote medical science and its translation into benefits for society.
Andrew McKenzie, John Sutherland and Roger Williams, all Group Leaders in the LMB’s PNAC Division, have been elected Fellows of the Royal Society. The Royal Society is a Fellowship of the world’s most eminent scientists and is the oldest scientific academy in continuous existence. It seeks to promote excellence in science, electing up to 52 new Fellows and up to 10 new Foreign Members each year who have made substantial contributions to the improvement of knowledge in the sciences.
The LMB is delighted to announce the arrival of Radu Aricescu to the LMB’s Neurobiology Division, where he will be working on the structural analysis of neurotransmitter receptors, trans-synaptic protein complexes and neuronal synapses. Chemical synapses, junctions between two neurons, are of crucial importance for all aspects of brain function. Synapses modulate the architecture and strength of neuronal circuits and are fundamental to the ability of the brain to acquire and store information.