About the Project
Gestational diabetes is far more common in British mothers of Pakistani descent than in other ethnic groups1. Part of this may be due to environmental exposures (diet, exercise, etc.) but these do not fully explain the risk and it is believed that genetic variation is an important factor. This project aims to identify the genetic variants increasing risk of gestational diabetes by utilising both genotype and genetic sequence data from over 3,000 mothers of Pakistani descent from the Born in Bradford cohort2. There has been little work on the effect of common genetic variants in ethnic minorities, who are typically underrepresented in genetic epidemiological studies. This population is of particular genetic interest given its distinct genetic structure into clans (known as biraderis) and tradition of consanguineous marriage. The project is potentially wide-ranging and offers a variety of possible avenues to follow. Candidates should have a good first degree in a relevant scientific discipline with a strong grasp of statistical analysis (either through formal qualification or experience). An interest in genetics is important, but no prior knowledge is required.
The Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics has an international reputation in the field of genetic epidemiology. Members of the section lead GenoMEL, the world’s largest melanoma genetics consortium and are part of large consortia studying the genetics of diseases such as testis cancer, colorectal cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.
The Section of Genetics has a major interest in inherited disorders, in particular neurological conditions. Most rare paediatric neurological disease has a genetic basis. The risk of congenital anomalies in the local population in Bradford is about twice the average for England and Wales. Genetic data indicate that a considerable element of this is due to autosomal recessive disorders3. We have a longstanding interest in these disorders and in the identification and characterisation of novel disease genes.
Eligibility
You should hold a first degree equivalent to at least a UK upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject. This project would suit a student with a strong background in statistics or a related computational field and an interest in the application of genomics to the benefit of human health.
The Faculty minimum requirements for candidates whose first language is not English are:
• British Council IELTS - score of 6.5 overall, with no element less than 6.0
• TOEFL iBT - overall score of 92 with the listening and reading element no less than 21, writing element no less than 22 and the speaking element no less than 23.
How to apply
To apply for this scholarship applicants should complete a Faculty Scholarship Application form using the link below http://medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/download/2376/fmh_scholarship_application_16_17_entry and send this alongside a full academic CV, degree transcripts (or marks so far if still studying) and degree certificates to the Faculty Graduate School [Email Address Removed]
We also require 2 academic references to support your application. Please ask your referees to send these references on your behalf, directly to [Email Address Removed] by no later than Thursday 16 March 2017
If you have already applied for other scholarships using the Faculty Scholarship Application form you do not need to complete this form again. Instead you should email [Email Address Removed] to inform us you would like to be considered for this scholarship project.
Potential applicants are welcome to contact Dr Mark Iles with informal enquiries about this research project [Email Address Removed]
Any queries regarding the application process should be directed to [Email Address Removed]
References
1. Farrar, D., Fairley, L., Santorelli, G., Tuffnell, D., Sheldon, T.A., Wright, J., van Overveld, L., and Lawlor, D.A. (2015). Association between hyperglycaemia and adverse perinatal outcomes in south Asian and white British women: analysis of data from the Born in Bradford cohort. The lancet Diabetes & endocrinology 3, 795-804.
2. Narasimhan, V.M., Hunt, K.A., Mason, D., Baker, C.L., Karczewski, K.J., Barnes, M.R., Barnett, A.H., Bates, C., Bellary, S., Bockett, N.A., et al. (2016). Health and population effects of rare gene knockouts in adult humans with related parents. Science.
3. Sheridan, E., Wright, J., Small, N., Corry, P.C., Oddie, S., Whibley, C., Petherick, E.S., Malik, T., Pawson, N., McKinney, P.A., et al. (2013). Risk factors for congenital anomaly in a multiethnic birth cohort: an analysis of the Born in Bradford study. Lancet 382, 1350-1359.