The genomics of modern human biological uniqueness (BERGSTROM_U26DTP)
Modern humans are unique as a species, having spread widely and transformed the world with technology and large-scale societies. But until relatively recently (~50,000 years ago), there were many other types of humans on earth, including Neanderthals and Denisovans. What was it about modern human biology—if anything—that set us apart from these extinct relatives and made our ancestors take over the world? This fundamental question remains unsolved.
We can now tackle this from a new angle, leveraging the unprecedented genetic data available in biobank-scale datasets. Genome sequences are now available from half to a million people, meaning that we can expect to observe rare mutations at a large fraction of sites in the human genome. We can use this to try to narrow down what parts of our genome are actually important for defining modern human-specific biology.
This project will analyse data from these ultra-large datasets, alongside data from our great apes relatives and ancient DNA from Neanderthals and Denisovans, to address the genetic basis of modern human biological uniqueness. Interrogating the genome through the lens of genetic variation observed across a million individuals has never before been possible in genetics research, not even in model organisms, and promises to transform the way we think about evolution.
The student will receive broad training in genomics, evolutionary biology, bioinformatics and population genetics. They will develop skills in large-scale data analysis and scientific programming. The student will take part in journal clubs and departmental seminars, present their work at conferences, and strengthen their abilities in critical thinking and science communication.
The ideal candidate will have a background in a biological science (e.g. genetics, molecular biology, evolutionary biology) or a quantitative science (e.g. computer science, statistics, physics), and have strong interests in genomics, data analysis and evolution.