Genetic epidemiology of bronchiectasis

This PhD studentship investigates the genetic architecture of bronchiectasis using large-scale genomic datasets from population-based biobanks and clinical cohorts. Once considered rare, bronchiectasis is now the third most common chronic respiratory disease, characterized by progressive, irreversible widening of the bronchi. Despite its growing global burden, the biological mechanisms remain poorly understood with no licensed drug treatments available. The project will use advanced bioinformatics and statistical genetic methodologies to identify genetic variants, genes and pathways associated with bronchiectasis susceptibility and progression, advancing biological understanding and revealing new opportunities for drug development. The successful candidate will be supported by supervisors with expertise in respiratory genomics and statistical genetics.