Last updated:
ID:
494252
Start date:
5 February 2026
Project status:
Current
Principal investigator:
Dr Xavier Wezen Chee
Lead institution:
National University of Singapore, Singapore

Our research aims to conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of two prominent cohort studies: the UK Biobank, representing more than 500,000 primarily European participants, and PRECISE-SG100K, focusing on Singapore’s multi-ethnic population of over 100,000 individuals. By examining sample characteristics and biomarkers associated with health-related diseases across these diverse populations, we seek to address critical knowledge gaps in population health research. These include understanding biomarker variability, gene-environment interactions, and the applicability of risk prediction models across different ethnic groups. Our research objectives include comparing sample characteristics, analyzing biomarker differences, exploring their relation to disease risks, investigating gene-environment interactions, and improving risk prediction models. This cross-cohort comparison offers a unique opportunity to advance precision medicine by identifying population-specific risk factors and biomarkers. Ultimately, this study aims to enhance our understanding of global population health, inform tailored prevention strategies, and contribute to more effective, population-specific healthcare interventions in an increasingly interconnected world. This work would be undertaken by Masters student in the Masters of Precision Health and Medicine programme at the National University of Singapore.