LIMR Division of Molecular Medicine
Cancer Research
Using a comprehensive range of models and clinical samples, our teams of researchers investigate the biology of cancer, translating from discovery science into clinical applications to improve patient outcomes in multiple cancer types. We identify novel biomarkers to improve early detection, diagnosis and disease progression monitoring as well as developing innovative targeted treatments, from small molecules, immunotherapies, nanoparticles to nutraceuticals. Our goal is to improve outcomes for adults, young people and children with cancer.
Rare Diseases
Our researchers work closely with the Leeds Genomics Facility and the Leeds Centre for Disease Models to transform our understanding of rare genetic disorders through improving genetic testing, better understanding of disease mechanisms and developing therapies.
MSc Molecular Medicine
We host the MSc Molecular Medicine. Many of our MSc students progress to PhDs in the University, linking in with the LIMR International PhD Academy for our international students. Our alumni thrive in biomedical sciences careers in academia, the NHS or industry.
“Undoubtedly, the molecular medicine master's made me a better scientist and prepared me for a career in science.”- IC - 2023
LIMR International PhD Academy
Dr Valleley leads the LIMR International PhD Academy, which has rapidly expanded our cohort of excellent international students. Our graduates have progressed to post-doctoral research fellowships across the UK and USA, or they achieve promotions to prestigious Faculty academic positions within their home institutions.
"Having left the academic and laboratory setting for some timet, he International PhD Academy has helped equip me with the necessary skills for my PhD journey.”-AM - 2024
Research platforms and facilities
The Leeds Genomics Facility provides efficient and flexible library preparation and sequencing services to both local researchers and external customers. The department deploys cutting-edge workflows and works in partnership with both the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and wider North East and Yorkshire Genomic Laboratory Hub.
BBSRC success for SCBT
The SCBT group secured BBSRC Follow-on-Funding to advance 3D modelling of the human blood–brain barrier, towards enabling faster and better-informed decision-making in neuropharma, involving collaboration with the Medicines Discovery Catapult.
Translational Research Accelerator Award - GOSH / LifeArc
Congratulations to LIMR's James Poulter and Milène Volpato on being awarded a Translational Research Accelerator Award co-funded by Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and LifeArc. The award will fund pre-clinical testing of a novel antisense oligonucleotide for a group of neurodevelopment overgrowth conditions. Only 3 awards were made nationally, and this is the first ever to be awarded outside of GOSH/UCL. More information can be found in the official website.
Professor Johnson new LIMR Deputy Director (Laboratory Research)
We are delighted to share that Professor Colin Johnson will take up the role of LIMR Deputy Director (Laboratory Research) on 1st August 2026. Prof Colin Johnson has had a long-standing involvement in LIMR and wider university leadership, including being Head of Division for Molecular Medicine. Colin’s experience and strategic perspective will be instrumental as we move into an important period of development.
Big step for Kytfox
The SCBT group spin-out project ‘Kytfox’ developing small molecules for bioenergetically vulnerable, high-need cancers was selected for this year’s Northern Gritstone–KQ Labs accelerator, based at the Francis Crick Institute
MMED Group Leaders
MMED Research
Read a selection of our most recent publications. You can find more information about more publications and ongoing projects on our group leader profiles.
