Functional biology is the comparative physiology of plants and animals; i.e. comparing the way different kinds of organisms function in the context of their structure (anatomy). Many of the mechanisms organisms use for survival are conserved across species, allowing the revelation of key functional principles. Furthermore, the mechanisms which organisms have evolved depend on their interactions with the environment through time. Finally, Functional biology has important roles to play in elucidating the effects of gene mutations and/or deletions affecting protein function and environmental effects on gene expression.

Functional biology acts as the perfect springboard for undergraduate students to go on to post-graduate bioscience degrees; e.g. Masters and PhDs in biological/physiological disciplines. Graduates of Functional biology are also ideally placed to contribute to the knowledge economy/society through careers with biotechnology companies and/or industry, having gained unique and valuable experience and training. The course also provides an excellent background for students who want to pursue a career in teaching biology.