PhD Opportunity – EASTBIO: Unravelling the Role of Rare Variants Linked to Language-Related Traits
Project Title:
EASTBIO: Unravelling the Role of Rare Variants Linked to Language-Related Traits
Supervisor(s):
Principal Supervisor: Professor Silvia Paracchini (School of Medicine), [email protected].
Co-supervisor: Professor Sonja Vernes (School of Biology), [email protected].
Deadline:
Friday 17 January 2025
Project Description:
What genes influence language abilities in humans? What molecular mechanisms mediate the effects of specific genetic mutations on language abilities? How did language evolve? Answering these questions is very challenging, but the integration of genomic technologies and large cohorts has led to highly promising discoveries. Our team has contributed to such efforts by identifying specific genes and genetic variants that influence language abilities through a large – the largest of its kind ever conducted – whole exome sequencing (WES) study.
This EASTBIO project will build upon these results, employing a multidisciplinary approach that combines bioinformatics with molecular biology techniques. A team of experienced supervisors with complementary expertise will provide training in bioinformatics, functional genomics, and gene function characterization. New datasets will be analyzed for gene discovery, and the results will be followed up with multi-omics approaches using resources such as the UK Biobank. Simultaneously, you will characterize the molecular effects of genetic variants on protein function using a range of assays. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, work as part of dynamic teams, and collaborate with an extensive network of international partners. One of the project’s key features is that the datasets necessary for the bioinformatic analyses have already been generated, and access to the relevant population cohorts has already been secured, allowing for immediate commencement of data analysis.
Previous experience in bioinformatics and/or molecular biology will be advantageous, although training will be provided for all aspects of the project. The ideal candidate will have a genuine interest in addressing significant scientific questions through cross-disciplinary approaches and demonstrate an aptitude for working as part of a research team.
Funding Details:
This 4-year PhD project is part of a competition funded by EASTBIO BBSRC Doctoral Training Partnership.
This opportunity is open to UK and International students and provides funding to cover stipend at UKRI standard rate and UK level tuition fees. The University of St Andrews will cover the Home-International fee difference.
How to Apply:
Application instructions can be found on the EASTBIO website – https://biology.ed.ac.uk/eastbio/how-to-apply.
1) Download and complete the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion survey.
2) Download and complete the EASTBIO Application Form.
3) Submit an application to St Andrews University through the Online Application Portal.
Your online application must include the following documents:
- Completed EASTBIO application form.
- 2 References (to be completed on the EASTBIO Reference Form, also found on the EASTBIO website).
- Academic Qualifications.
- English Language Qualification (if applicable).
Unfortunately, due to workload constraints, we cannot consider incomplete applications. Please make sure your application is complete by 17th January 2025.
Contact:
Queries on the project can be directed to the project supervisor.
Queries on the application process can be directed to Rachel Horn at [email protected].
UKRI eligibility guidance: Terms and Conditions: View Website International/EU: View Website.