To understand individual differences in healthy ageing, it is crucial to understand what influences healthy vs. unhealthy ageing. It is known that a person's social position, as well as their lifestyle behaviours and genetic background influence risk of disease. Changes to our DNA, called epigenetics, occur naturally as part of ageing and are also influenced by our
genetics and factors around us (social and lifestyle). Therefore, epigenetic changes occur differently in different people, and these differences are thought to help explain "relative health" (i.e. why one person can be healthier than another despite being the same age). Understanding these differences can point us in the direction in which we should act, both for individuals and for the population. Indeed, epigenetic changes often precede disease pathology and therefore may be used as a biomarker to indicate disease risk. The use of epigenetics as a "screening tool" in blood could replace the need for invasive and costly tests, which would allow for both targeted prevention and significant cost savings to healthcare systems.
In this project, we will use data and samples from Alberta's Tomorrow Project (ATP), a large cohort study in Alberta,
Canada, with comprehensive data collection of participants' health and lifestyle, environment, and biomarkers (via available biosamples) and other data. By extending our existing collaboration with the Turing Fellows and other leading scientists at the University of Manchester, this project uses AI methods to expand our current prediction work to fully explore and integrate lifestyle, environmental, AND epigenomic/genomic data to provide an innovative opportunity to explore key drivers for healthy ageing and opportunities for intervention. We also will utilise AI approach to provide feedback platform by engaging with the general public with the aim to improve their general health including lifestyle and diet.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a First or Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of science, engineering or technology.
How to Apply
To be considered for this project you MUST submit a formal online application form - full details on how to apply can be found on the BBSRC DTP website www.manchester.ac.uk/bbsrcdtpstudentships
Applicants interested in this project should make direct contact with the Primary Supervisor to arrange to discuss the project further as soon as possible.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/