Example PhD

Evaluating Motif Search Algorithms

Supervisor: Dr C. Walker

Keywords: Motif Search, Evaluation

Different motif search and sequence analysis tools have been developed, and many of these are available as on-line tools. However, because of the lack of conventional standards and benchmarks, it is difficult for biologists to decide which tool to trust and to use. Although there are evaluations and reviews on motif searching algorithms, most of these studies were conducted by scientists specialising in computer science, and no useful conclusions have not been achieved because most computer scientists are not equipped with the knowledge required by a biologist, and most biologists do not have the skill and knowledge to understand and analyse the algorithms. This project requires a student who is skilled in both computer science and biology, so they can understand the underlying algorithms as a computer specialist, as well as evaluate and use the algorithms as a biologist.

Key Skills/Background: 2.1 degree in computer science, biology, or related subjects with good problem-solving ability.

Contact: Dr C. Walker to discuss this research topic.