What are the biological mechanisms underlying the association between smoking, smoking cessation and mental health: a triangulation approach

Project Code

MRCPHS26Br Taylor G

Project Type

Dry lab

Research Theme

Population Health Science

Project Summary Download

Summary

What are the biological mechanisms underlying the association between smoking, smoking cessation, and mental health? A growing body of evidence supports smoking as a causal risk factor for poorer mental health, and there is evidence for long-term improvements in mental health following smoking cessation. However, less is known about the mechanisms underlying this association. This PhD project will examine hypothesized biological mechanisms, such as inflammation markers. The candidate will receive training in methodological approaches, including techniques from genetic epidemiology, advanced machine learning aligned with MRC’s Foundations for Excellence, and innovative G-methods for causal inference to reduce residual and time-varying confounding.

Lead Supervisor

Dr Gemma Taylor

Lead Supervisor Email

gemma.taylor@bristol.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Bristol