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Heriot Watt University offers Medical Research Scotland funded PhD to use AI and RNA biomarkers to improve ALS diagnosis.
This project is one of 21 four year PhD Studentships funded by Medical Research Scotland (MRS) (https://www.medicalresearchscotland.org.uk) to be delivered jointly by the named University and External Partner Organisation (EPO). The Studentship will provide first-class academic, and additional training provided by the EPO, needed to equip the successful candidate for a science career in an increasingly competitive market.
“Using RNA biomarkers and AI to improve ALS diagnosis” to be delivered by the Heriot-Watt University [Supervisors: Dr Marta Vallejo, Dr Chengjia Wang and Professor Michael Lones (all Department of Computer Sciences)] and 12 de Octubre Hospital (https://imas12.es/en/) [External Partner Organisation supervisor: Dr Alberto Garcia Redondo ].
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most common form of motor neurone disease (MND), is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative condition with no cure and limited diagnostic tools. Earlier diagnosis and improved patient stratification are urgently needed to enhance patient care and clinical trial design.
This fully funded (at Home (UK) fee rate) PhD project, supported by Medical Research Scotland, will develop advanced machine learning (ML) approaches to discover and integrate molecular biomarkers for ALS. The focus is on non-coding RNAs (microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs) alongside established protein biomarkers such as neurofilament light chain. These markers can be measured in clinically accessible samples including blood and cerebrospinal fluid, offering strong translational potential.
The student will analyse anonymised multi-modal datasets from approximately 150 ALS patients recruited at Hospital 12 de Octubre (Madrid), a leading ALS research centre. The data include whole exome sequencing, RNA-seq profiles, proteomic measurements, and detailed clinical information.
The PhD will be based in the Department of Computer Science at Heriot-Watt University, within the ML-Health research group, and supervised by Dr Marta Vallejo, an expert in AI for neurodegenerative diseases. The project is computationally focused: the student will develop pipelines for data preprocessing, feature engineering, multi-modal integration, predictive modelling, and explainable AI. Short research visits to the partner hospital will provide insight into laboratory and clinical workflows, while the research contribution will remain centred on ML methodology.
This project offers the opportunity to apply cutting-edge AI methods to a high-impact biomedical challenge with real clinical relevance.
ENQUIRIES:
Enquiries should be sent by email to Dr Marta Vallejo:
APPLICATIONS:
Eligibility: This studentship is open to UK applicants or those with settled/pre-settled status who meet residency requirements.
Applicants must have obtained, or expect to obtain, an MSc (preferably with distinction) or a first-class degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative discipline.
Strong programming skills in Python are essential, including experience with PyTorch, TensorFlow, or scikit-learn. Applicants should have solid knowledge of machine learning, statistics, and data preprocessing. Experience with deep learning, version control (Git), or cloud computing is desirable. An interest in translational healthcare research and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary clinical–AI setting are essential.
Applicants must use the on-line application form for Heriot-Watt University via the link below.
https://www.hw.ac.uk/study/how-to-apply/postgraduate-programmes
Applications should include a CV; a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for applying for this PhD Studnetship; the names and contact details (including email addresses) of at least two academic referees; and copies of degree certificates and academic transcripts.
Please note, your application may be shared with the funders of this PhD Studentship, Medical Research Scotland and 12 de Octubre Hospital.
Interviews are expected to take place approximately 3-4 weeks after the closing date for applications.
It is anticipated that the PhD Studentship will start 5 October 2026.
To apply for this job please visit www.findaphd.com.
