Extraction, representation and exploration of analytical methods in computational biology
Project: The selection of an appropriate method is at the heart of biological research, and with current technologies - combined with the scale and breadth of data generated over the past two decades - has never been so complex. Computational biologists in particular are faced with a plethora of analytical methods that they can use to analyse and explore their data. The main aim of this project will be to design a computer-based system to help with the identification, choice and implementation of data analysis methods. This will permit scientists to explore and objectively judge what methods are appropriate for their task based on well-defined metrics, or either individual or community best practice.
The project's aims are to model and create, by the automated extraction from the scientific literature, a knowledge base of data analysis techniques from across computational biology. Supplemented with profiles that summarise the semantics and usage of the techniques, this resource will give biologists the ability to choose a data analysis technique most suited to their questions and data, in particular when outside a researcher's immediate expertise.
The project will be multi-disciplinary, and will involve development of a broad skill base, including knowledge representation and modelling techniques, text mining and bioinformatics.
The supervisors will be Robert Stevens and Goran Nenadic from the School of Computer Science and David Robertson from the Faculty of Life Sciences.
Funding and eligibility: A four year PhD studentship funded by the BBSRC is available for a suitable candidate. The studentship is open to UK/EU applicants and will pay tuition fees in addition to a generous stipend.
Applicants should have a good first degree in computer science, bioinformatics or computational biology, or in a related subject area. An MSc in a relevant subject area would be a distinct advantage. Programming skills will be essential, as is an interest in multi-disciplinary research.
Applications: See here on how to apply. Applications are expected by Friday 16 April 2010. The project will commence in the academic year 2010/11.
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