PhD: Combining Omics Data and AI to Uncover Genetic Factors in Brain Health and Healthy Aging
This interdisciplinary PhD project at the University of St Andrews aims to dissect the genetic factors influencing brain health and healthy aging by leveraging multi-omics data from large epidemiological cohorts, including the UK Biobank. The research integrates genomic, proteomic, imaging, cognitive, and demographic data using advanced AI approaches to identify key determinants of healthy brain function and aging trajectories. The project will contribute to innovative frameworks for understanding how genetic risk factors for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative traits can be mitigated or modulated throughout life.
Students will benefit from a unique training environment, combining expertise in genetics, AI, and neuroimaging, and will participate in a cross-sector collaboration with Scottish Brain Sciences, a company specializing in early dementia detection and brain health monitoring. Academic supervision is provided by Professor Silvia Paracchini, a leading human geneticist, and Dr David Harris-Birtill, an expert in AI for imaging data, both with extensive experience in UK Biobank data and longitudinal studies. Dr SG Gregory also contributes to the supervisory team.
Training includes hands-on placements at Scottish Brain Sciences, offering practical experience in cognitive assessments and brain imaging methodologies, as well as exposure to data ethics and governance. The student will develop critical skills in multi-omics data analysis, AI-driven techniques, and interdisciplinary communication, supported by regular meetings and progress reports. All necessary data for the project are already available, enabling immediate commencement of analyses.
The project is funded for four years by the EASTBIO BBSRC Doctoral Training Partnership, covering stipend at UKRI standard rate and UK level tuition fees, with the University of St Andrews covering the Home-International fee difference. The opportunity is open to both UK and international students. Applicants should have a strong academic background in relevant disciplines such as genetics, bioinformatics, neuroscience, or computer science. Prior experience in bioinformatics, mathematical modelling, or AI is advantageous but not essential. English language qualifications are required for non-native speakers, and two academic references must be submitted using the EASTBIO Reference Form.
To apply, candidates must complete the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion survey and the EASTBIO Application Form from the EASTBIO website, then submit an online application via the University of St Andrews portal, selecting 'PhD with internship'. Required documents include the completed EASTBIO application form, academic qualifications, English language qualification (if applicable), and two references. Referees can upload references directly or email them to pgrecbiology@st-andrews.ac.uk. For project queries, contact the supervisors; for application queries, contact Rachel Horn at the provided email address.
This project offers an exceptional opportunity to develop expertise at the intersection of genetics, neuroscience, and AI, with direct relevance to brain health and aging research, and to gain experience in both academic and industry settings.