This PhD project at the University of Leicester focuses on the genetic epidemiology of bronchiectasis, a chronic respiratory disease that has seen a significant rise in incidence and prevalence globally. Once considered rare, bronchiectasis is now recognised as the third most common chronic respiratory disease, highlighting the urgent need for advanced research into its genetic and epidemiological underpinnings. Hosted within the Department of Population Health Sciences, this research opportunity will leverage cutting-edge approaches in bioinformatics, genetics, genomics, human genetics, medical statistics, and epidemiology. The project aims to unravel the genetic factors contributing to bronchiectasis, utilizing large-scale datasets and advanced statistical methods to identify genetic variants associated with disease susceptibility, progression, and outcomes. Supervision will be provided by Dr K Coley and Prof L Wain, both of whom have extensive expertise in respiratory genetics and population health. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative opportunities within the university and with external partners. Applicants should possess a strong academic background in a relevant discipline such as genetics, genomics, epidemiology, bioinformatics, or medical statistics. Experience or a keen interest in genetic epidemiology and computational analysis is highly desirable. Proficiency in English is required for non-native speakers, in line with university requirements. While the funding status is not specified in this announcement, prospective students are encouraged to consult the University of Leicester's website or contact the department for information on potential funding opportunities. The application deadline is 19 January 2026, providing ample time for interested candidates to prepare their materials. This project offers an excellent opportunity for motivated students to contribute to impactful research in respiratory genetics and public health, with the potential to inform clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.

This PhD project, based at the University of Leicester in the Department of Population Health Sciences, offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the genetic and imaging correlates of fibrosis across multiple organs. Fibrosis, the body's wound-healing response, can become pathological and is implicated in a wide range of diseases, accounting for approximately 30% of deaths. Despite its prevalence, effective treatments are limited, and the mechanisms underlying fibrotic disease remain incompletely understood. The project aims to integrate large-scale genetic data with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) metrics to identify genetic variants associated with fibrosis and to understand how these relate to organ changes detectable by MRI. By studying fibrosis across different organs simultaneously, the research seeks to uncover shared and distinct genetic mechanisms, explore sex differences in disease prevalence, and investigate the co-occurrence of fibrotic diseases in different organs. As a student, you will develop expertise in statistical genetics, epidemiology, and functional genomics, with a strong emphasis on bioinformatics and machine learning for image analysis. The programme includes approximately three months at the University of Nottingham, where you will receive advanced training in MRI and image analysis techniques at the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre. Supervisory support is provided by Prof L Wain (University of Leicester), Professor Sue Francis (University of Nottingham), Dr Richard Allen (University of Leicester), and Dr Eleanor Cox (University of Nottingham). Funding is highly competitive and comprehensive: successful applicants receive four years of stipend at UKRI rates, four years of tuition fees at UK fee rates, and a full overseas fee waiver for all international students accepted at Leicester. There is also a budget for research training support and laptop purchase. The programme is open to UK and international applicants, with up to 30% of places available for overseas students. Applicants should have a strong academic background in genetics, bioinformatics, biomedical sciences, medical physics, or a related discipline. Experience or interest in statistical genetics, epidemiology, functional genomics, or image analysis (including machine learning) is desirable. International applicants must meet the University of Leicester's English language requirements. The application deadline is January 9, 2026. To apply, visit the MRC AIM PhD Opportunities portal. For project-specific enquiries, contact Prof L Wain at [email protected]; for programme enquiries, email [email protected]. References supporting the research include recent studies on fibrotic multimorbidity, genetic risk mapping, and consensus classification of fibrotic diseases. This project is ideal for candidates interested in interdisciplinary research at the interface of genetics, imaging, and computational analysis, with the potential to contribute to improved understanding and treatment of fibrotic diseases.

Bronchiectasis, once considered rare, is now the third most common chronic respiratory disease worldwide, characterized by progressive and irreversible widening of the bronchi. This condition results from a cycle of impaired mucus clearance, recurrent infections, dysregulated inflammation, and airway damage. Despite its increasing prevalence and global burden, the biological mechanisms underlying bronchiectasis remain poorly understood, and there are currently no licensed drug treatments, leaving patients with limited options. This PhD project at the University of Leicester aims to advance understanding of bronchiectasis by investigating its genetic architecture. Leveraging large-scale genomic datasets from population-based biobanks and clinical cohorts, you will apply advanced bioinformatics and statistical genetic methodologies to identify genetic variants, genes, and pathways associated with disease susceptibility and progression. The research will provide mechanistic insights into bronchiectasis biology and highlight new opportunities for drug development. You will join the Department of Population Health Sciences and be supported by supervisors with expertise in respiratory genomics and statistical genetics, including Dr Kayesha Coley and Prof L Wain. The project offers access to cutting-edge datasets and methodologies, fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. The College of Life Sciences studentship provides 3.5 years of UK tuition fees and a stipend at UKRI rates (£20,780 per year for 2025/6). International applicants are welcome but must fund the difference between UK and overseas fees (£18,644 per year for 2025/26), as well as visa, NHS, and travel costs. Entry requirements include a first or upper second class undergraduate degree in a relevant subject (genetics, bioinformatics, medical science, biology, or related fields), with desirable experience in statistical genetics, genomics, or bioinformatics. English language proficiency is required for non-native speakers. The application deadline is March 15, 2026. To apply, review the application advice and submit your application via the University of Leicester research degrees web page. For project enquiries, contact Dr Kayesha Coley at [email protected].