Join us for the next in the series of webinars from the Genomics Theme! For this webinar we welcome Moneeza Siddiqui - Lecturer In Genetic Epidemiology.

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Topic: 

The value of diverse ancestries in understanding causes of diseases

Abstract:

Through this talk, I will use both existing literature (published by others) and some of our own research to highlight how increasing the diversity of sources of genetic data can help untangle the aetiology of complex cardio-metabolic diseases. I will try to explain how this has implications for the diagnosis and management of common conditions. Finally, I will discuss why we should look Eastward for answers to some of our more baffling health problems.

Speaker bio:

My background is in Biochemistry and Genetic Epidemiology.  I am interested in developing resources and research for precision medicine for cardiometabolic diseases across diverse populations, with a particular focus on south Asian populations. Using bioresource data from diverse ancestral backgrounds, my group uses genetic epidemiology, multi-omics methods, and population genetics to understand the causes of type 2 diabetes in south Asians, particularly the presentation of young onset diabetes.

One of my primary research resources are the Genes & Health study based at QMUL which is the largest bioresource of British Bangladeshis and British Pakistanis with linked genomic and electronic health data. I serve on the Executive of the Genes & Health study, where my roles include presenting new study data requests, developing a QMUL-wide researcher network of data users. I also work closely with partners in the pharmaceutical industry to deliver translational research.

Outside of QMUL, I am a consulting scientist at the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation in Chennai India where I lead work developing high performance computing infrastructure to build local genomic research capacity. This is to support research using a large bioresource based in Chennai, India that includes genomic data linked to data from epidemiological studies and a clinical population.

I serve on the Diabetes UK Steering Group on Causes of Diabetes where my responsibilities include helping identify research gaps and developing funding calls and research highlight notices.

I am lead for the South England Genetic Epidemiology Group which is focussed on bringing together researchers in the field a few times a year for research meetings and building a community of researchers in the field at different career stages.

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Please direct any questions about the webinar series to info@datascienceforhealthequity.com