An artificial intelligence approach to investigate neurodegenerative diseases in ageing; interdisciplinary project integrating nutrition, genetics, environmental science and data analytics

Summary

The global population is ageing rapidly, with the proportion of people over 60 expected to reach 2 billion by 2050. Neuropsychiatric disorders, such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease, are leading causes of disability among older adults. Over 50 million people currently live with dementia, a figure projected to triple by 2050, while Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 10 million people worldwide. Their combined social and economic burden necessitates urgent public health strategies to prevent or delay their onset.

Ageing and genetic predispositions, such as the Apolipoprotein E4 allele (linked to Alzheimer’s disease) and mutations in the α-synuclein gene (implicated in Parkinson’s disease), are major risk factors. In addition, modifiable factors, including lifestyle and environmental influences, play a crucial role. It is estimated that 40% of dementia cases are preventable. Dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean and MIND diets, along with nutrients like B-vitamins, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, have been studied for their potential in mitigating neurodegenerative diseases.

This interdisciplinary PhD project will utilise data from the Trinity-Ulster Department of Agriculture (TUDA) study, an extensive ageing dataset of over 5,000 adults aged 60+ in Ireland. The research will apply advanced Whole Genome Sequencing, biomarker analysis, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to explore the interactions between biological, genetic, and environmental factors in neurodegenerative diseases. By integrating these insights, the study aims to identify key risk factors and inform public health strategies to prevent neurodegenerative conditions and improve the health and well-being of older populations.

This project is a 4-year PhD project with enhanced training and 3+ month placement, which is fully funded by UKRI BBSRC through the NI Landscape Partnership in AI for Bioscience (NILAB) Programme, delivered by Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University. Details of the enhanced training will be available later at qub.ac.uk/nilab/.  NILAB aims to bridge the gap between biology and artificial intelligence to accelerate bioscience discovery and foster effective collaboration between academia, industrial partners, and government bodies. NILAB’s mission is to train the next generation of researchers to develop and use AI to uncover the rules of life, addressing challenges in human health, animal welfare, and sustainable food systems.

This project is open to both home and international applicants on a competitive basis.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Clearly defined research proposal detailing background, research questions, aims and methodology

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 70%
• For VCRS Awards, Masters at 75%
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed
• Experience of presentation of research findings

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• BBSRC - Doctoral Landscape award

This fully funded PhD scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £20,780 per annum for four years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £5000 per annum is also available.

This scholarship is open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships are available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.