Professor Ed Hollox

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

Department of Genetics, Genomics and Cancer Sciences, University of Leicester

Scientific Background

Research Interests

My research focuses on human genetic diversity, its evolutionary origin and its phenotypic consequences. In particular, we are interested in the evolution and genetic variation of genes in dynamic regions of the human genome, and the relationship of this variation with disease.

Research Groups

Hollox Group

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Supportive, guiding, inclusive.

Provision of Training

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I like to be kept up to date in regular meetings, but I will expect you to take full ownership of your progression and come to me when you need help troubleshooting.

Communication

I am happy to discuss any issues that are impacting your ability to fulfil your potential or our expectations.

Meetings

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me at least once per fortnight. These meetings will be face-to-face. I am usually contactable for an instant response 3 or 4 days per week.

Work Patterns

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings) I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 2 weeks' notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5,000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Primary supervisor for:

Global variation in maltase-glucoamylase copy number and starch digestion in humans

See the PhD Opportunities section to see if this project is currently open for applications via MIBTP.

Please Note: The main page lists projects via BBSRC Research Theme(s) quoted and then relevant Topic(s).

Global variation in maltase-glucoamylase copy number and starch digestion in humans

Secondary Supervisor(s): Dr Richard Badge, Dr Serena Tucci

University of Registration: University of Leicester

BBSRC Research Themes:

Integrated Understanding of Health (Diet and Health)

Project Outline

This project will investigate whether variation in MGAM gene copy number contributes to differences in starch digestion and whether its effects depend on variation in the amylase genes. Preliminary analysis of UK Biobank data has identified a common MGAM copy number variant with distinct copy number states. The project will determine how this variation is distributed across human populations, whether it is associated with amylase copy number and dietary history, and whether MGAM copy number has changed during human evolution alongside the expansion of amylase copy number associated with agriculture.

The project will use genomic datasets including the Human Pangenome, Human Genome Diversity Project, 1000 Genomes Project, UK Biobank and published ancient DNA datasets. Bioinformatic methods will be developed to measure MGAM copy number from DNA sequence data and validated using long-read genome assemblies. Population genetic analyses will test relationships between MGAM and amylase copy number and between genetic variation and historical patterns of starch-rich diets. Statistical genetic analyses will test for interactions between the two parts of the starch digestion pathway. Finally, ancient DNA will be analysed to investigate changes in MGAM copy number through time.

The project will provide training in human genetics, population genomics, bioinformatics, statistical genetics and ancient DNA analysis, and improve understanding of how dietary history has shaped the human genome.