Mentor Areas
My group is interested in the broad question of the genetic architecture of common, complex human phenotypes. What makes us who we are and what explains the differences between individuals? We develop and apply statistical genetic techniques to identify and characterize genes and genetic variants influencing risk of disorders such as schizophrenia, autism, and addiction, often through studying related quantitative risk factors.
Description:
We are a ""dry lab"", where all projects focus on computational analysis of human genetics data sets. Ongoing projects involve genome-wide association studies, analysis of gene expression levels, and analysis of exome and whole genome sequence in population- and family-based studies of schizophrenia, autism, addiction, and normal variation in brain structure and function. Many projects involve analysis of quantitative risk factors, including structural and functional MRI, electrophysiological traits, and measures of cognitive function. We are also particularly interested in gene-environment interaction analyses.
All student projects involve primarily data analysis but may also include data processing and quality control. Advanced students with strong quantitative and computational skills may have an opportunity to participate in statistical genetics methods development projects.
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates should have a background in one of genetics, biostatistics, or computer programming and a willingness to learn a bit about the others.
Specific software and analytical techniques will be taught, but being comfortable working in a command line computing environment is a must.
Details:
Preferred Student Year
Second-Year, Junior, Senior
Academic Term
Fall, Spring, Summer
I prefer to have students start during the above term(s).Volunteer
Yes
Yes indicates that faculty are open to volunteers.Paid
No
Yes indicates that faculty are open to paying students they engage in their research, regardless of their work-study eligibility.Work Study
Yes
Yes indicates that faculty are open to hiring work-study-eligible students.