MSc Dissertation Opportunities

Join Our Research Team

We are actively seeking motivated MSc students to undertake their dissertation projects in the Cardiovascular Genomics Group at the Human Genetics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata. Projects typically last between 3 months and 1 year and provide an opportunity to contribute to ongoing research in the genomics of cardiovascular disease and related risk factors.

Research Focus

The Cardiovascular Genomics Research Group aims to better understand the genetic basis of cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, and to investigate the biological pathways involved. Our research focuses on genome-wide association studies using large-scale population and biobank datasets. We apply statistical and computational methods to analyse human genetic and multi-omics data, including imaging, biomarker, clinical, transcriptomic, and proteomic information, to improve understanding of cardiovascular disease and related traits.

MSc students will have the opportunity to work on projects involving genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and Mendelian randomization to identify genetic risk factors and assess causal relationships in cardiovascular disease. Projects may also include multi-omics data integration, polygenic risk score development, and the application of statistical, computational, and machine learning methods for genetic analysis and risk prediction. Students will gain experience analysing large-scale biobank data and using genetic evidence to help identify and prioritise potential therapeutic targets.

Why join is

We are located at the Human Genetics Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, an Institute of National Importance with a strong legacy in statistical and quantitative sciences. This provides an intellectually stimulating environment with access to faculty expertise, computational resources, and genomic and multi-omics datasets. Students will gain experience in statistical genetics, causal inference, bioinformatics, and computational biology, and contribute to ongoing research projects, with the potential for publication where appropriate.

We welcome motivated MSc students with a background in genetics, bioinformatics, statistics, computational biology, or a related field. Candidates should have an interest in genetic data analysis and basic programming skills (e.g., R, Python, or Linux) are desirable. A willingness to learn and work collaboratively is essential.

The start date is flexible.

Interested candidates should send the following materials to Devendra Meena (devmeena@isical.ac.in or devgahlot@gmail.com):

1. CV/Resume

2. A brief statement of your research interests and why you are interested in joining the lab (one paragraph is sufficient)

   
   

Informal enquiries about available opportunities and your suitability for the group are welcome.