Artificial Intelligence to enable omics integration - delivering enhanced data utilisation for biomarker discovery

This is a great opportunity for an enthusiastic student to be trained in the cutting-edge disciplines of artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), intersected with medicine and biology, as well as biomarker technologies for characterisation of human disease and wellness. Such a training offers great advantage for a career in research or industry. Specifically, in this studentship we focus on the increasing need in medicine for molecular indicators (biomarkers) in prostate cancer. These can be identified in blood or other body fluids, and enable more precise patient diagnosis as well as prediction of disease progression and response to treatments. New biomarkers can help make better predictions for patients, improving how they are cared for and improving the health economy.

We have reached a point where we can generate huge amounts of data on the types of molecules found in blood or urine, using advanced ‘omics techniques that measure hundreds or thousands of different molecules such as proteins, lipids, or metabolites. While individual analyses that use genomic or other ‘omic data have shown some predictive abilities, there is growing evidence that multi-‘omic models, where biomarkers are identified across multiple ‘omic platforms, can enhance predictions for patients. However, combining these very complex data is not straightforward. In this PhD, we will directly address that issue.

AI gives us the ability to combine complex data from different sources, assessing molecular signatures that give us the ability to make diagnoses or determine who will respond well or badly to a drug. Using the huge amounts of data already available to us, we will develop and assess novel machine-learning approaches that can improve biomarker discovery through making better use of all the data collected from patients.

The University of Surrey and our collaborative partners provide a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities. We see our postgraduate researchers as an integral part of our research community, collaborating and innovating together with academics at all levels. We want the most talented researchers from diverse backgrounds to join us, bringing new ideas and perspectives. We will help you make the most of your potential, removing barriers where we can and supporting you with dedicated career guidance. We offer generous funding packages, sector-leading researcher development training and mentoring, and dedicated employability support.

Whatever your aspirations, Surrey is where research careers are launched and nurtured.

Applicants are expected to have a good honours degree (first or upper second) or a masters degree in an appropriate discipline; this includes, but not limited, to biological or health sciences, or informatics and computer sciences. Good quantitative skills are required; experience in coding would be considered favourably.   

English Language requirements 

IELTS Academic: 6.5 or above (or equivalent) with 6 in each individual category.

Health and Biomedical Informatics / Digital Health