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Genetic Epidemiology examines how inherited traits influence health and illness across families and communities, along with the interaction between genes and environmental elements.
In today's genomic age, where vast genetic datasets are easily accessible, it's crucial to develop study designs and analysis methods that precisely determine and characterize genetic influences on human diseases. While certain conditions stem solely from genetic causes, requiring attention to their public health implications as Mendelian disorders, most complex diseases arise from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental exposures. Our program focuses on combining thorough epidemiological approaches with genetic theories and tools to uncover disease risk factors. Faculty in genetic epidemiology participate in diverse investigations, spanning neuropsychiatric conditions, congenital abnormalities, infectious illnesses, cancers, renal disorders, heart disease, metabolic conditions, and aging, alongside developing and evaluating statistical techniques for genetic studies. Past and present students have pursued thesis projects on various subjects, such as genetic predisposition to diabetes, HIV/AIDS, mood disorders, cognitive impairment, breast cancer, kidney ailments, heart conditions, and respiratory diseases. By participating in collaborative initiatives both within and beyond our Department, students can explore their research interests while applying analytical methods taught in core coursework.