Molecular and Integrative Biosciences

The Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme (MIBS) investigates molecules, viruses, microbes, animal cells, tissues, organ systems and organisms. The programme combines different subjects areas of experimental biosciences, including biochemistry, genetics, structural biology, cell and developmental biology, virology and microbiology as well as neuroscience and physiology.
Our researchers concentrate on the molecular and mechanistic principles of life

Among other things, our research explores viral traits and immune defence mechanisms, metabolic regulation and the state of equilibrium between tissues, as well as the development and functioning of the nervous system. In addition to understanding the principles of life, these research areas are important to human health in terms of, for example, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders and cancer as well as brain diseases and mental health.

Research focus areas

  • Structural biology and virology
  • Cell and developmental biology
  • Genetics and genomics
  • Neurobiology

Strengths

The strengths of the Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme include

  • International research and publishing activities of a high standard in the programme’s focus areas
  • Active recruitment of and support for junior researchers
  • Modern research infrastructures and interaction with other units in biosciences
Research Programme MIBS Directors

Director Juha Partanen and Deputy Director Ville Hietakangas
Cooperation

Our research groups have broad-based and strong methodological skills, and close connections to research networks both at the University of Helsinki and on the international stage.
Education

Our teaching is based on research, and our researchers provide instruction in bachelor’s and master’s programmes, as well as the doctoral programmes organised by the doctoral schools.