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Genetic Epidemiology examines how inherited traits influence health and illness across families and communities, along with how genes interact with environmental elements. In today's genomic age, where vast genetic datasets are easily accessible, there's growing significance in developing study designs and analysis methods to precisely identify and characterize genetic influences on human diseases. While certain conditions stem purely from genetic causes (Mendelian disorders) with notable public health implications, most complex diseases arise from combined genetic and environmental risk factors. Our program focuses on merging thorough epidemiological approaches with genetic theories and tools to uncover disease-related genetic factors. Faculty members pursue diverse investigations spanning neuropsychiatric conditions, congenital abnormalities, infectious diseases, cancers, renal disorders, heart disease, metabolic conditions, and aging processes, alongside developing statistical methodologies for genetic epidemiology. Thesis projects by current and past students have explored genetic predispositions to diabetes, HIV/AIDS, mood disorders, cognitive impairment, breast cancer, kidney disease, heart conditions, and respiratory illnesses. Through internal and external collaborations, students can cultivate original research concepts while applying analytical techniques taught in core coursework.