Identification of determinants of sudden cardiac death and arrhythmias using population studies

Main Aim: To identify the genetic and clinical determinants and predictors of sudden cardiac death and arrhythmias

Sudden cardiac death is a major cause of deaths from cardiovascular origin. Indeed, up to half of the deaths from cardiovascular diseases are caused by sudden cardiac death. Prediction of sudden cardiac death is crucial in prevention of these deaths. Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are recognised for sudden cardiac death. Examples of modifiable risk factors includes hypertension, diabetes, and electrocardiographic abnormalities such as long QT syndrome. Factors such as problems in heart muscle or stenosis of aorta are not modifiable. Identification of novel determinants of sudden cardiac death is one step forward in prediction and possible insight into treatment options.

This PhD project aims to investigate genetic and clinical determinants and predictors of sudden cardiac death using statistical analysis methods. We will use data from the UK Biobank on 500,000 individuals. This project mainly involves data analysis and learning various skills in epidemiology and statistical analysis. Individuals with first degree at 2:1 or above with/without MSc degree or first degree at 2:2 with MSc degree at Merit or above in the fields related to data analysis such as data science, epidemiology, population genetics, statistics, or related disciplines and those who are experienced working with big data are encouraged to apply. You will learn techniques in analysis of data such as regression models, mendelian randomisation, polygenic models, risk prediction or machine learning. The duration of this PhD project is three years, and it will be supervised by Dr Raha Pazoki.

If you are interested to apply for this PhD project or if you prefer a one-year MPhil on a similar topic, please contact Dr Pazoki directly to get advice on the next steps.

Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. See more information here: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/research/Research-degrees/Research-degree-funding. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.