Information for PhD students

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) play a key role in uncovering the genetic basis of common diseases or traits in humans. An important challenge is the extraction of information from multiple genetic variants for gene-gene/gene-environment interactions or biologically relevant pathways. This is statistically and computationally challenging given the large amount of data involved.

Our Unit has carried out genetic association studies including GWAS, using both Affymetrix 500K and Illumina 317K GeneChips, to identify new genetic variants that contribute to the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes and to variation in metabolic traits. The data, which includes various metabolic outcomes and lifestyle factors, will be a rich resource for conducting research on a wide range of research questions, including gene-gene/gene-environment interaction and pathways.

Initiating from data analysis, this PhD project will involve computing-intensive methods to assess gene-gene interactions based on methods recently reported in the literature. A substantial part will also involve statistical modelling of gene-gene interaction and gene-environment interactions, evaluation, application and development of both confirmatory and exploratory methods appropriate for gene-trait association and inference of causal relationship.

This project will built on our previous work on multilocus analyses, the use of longitudinal data for causal inference, and network analysis on gene expression data. The project will be closely linked to several ongoing projects within the Unit.

The successful candidate will have a degree in statistics or equivalent and experience in statistical genetics, genetic epidemiology or bioinformatics and The candidate will receive further training in statistics, epidemiology and computing using various genomic and epidemiological data. By working closely with other members of the Unit and with collaborators, the successful candidate is expected to make substantial contributions to the GWAS projects while building his/her future career in the field of genetic epidemiology.

Click here for further details on the application procedure.

Statistical and Computational Methods for Gene-Gene/Gene-Environment Interactions and Pathway Analysis

PhD Opportunities (Start date: October 2008)

Supervisor: Jing Hua Zhao