Deciphering the genetic architecture of human complex traits (2019–2020)
Abstract:
Understanding the genetic basis of human complex traits - which are complex because they are influenced by
genetic and environmental factors - is critical to longstanding questions in human and evolutionary biology. This
project aims to develop statistical methods to integrate data from genetic studies of complex traits (e.g. stature
and cognition) and molecular phenotypes (e.g. gene expression) in large samples to predict target genes and regulatory elements of those traits. Significantly, the project will also detect signatures of natural selection in shaping the genetic variation in complex traits. Key project outcomes and benefits include better understandings of complex traits in global populations and the history of human evolution.