UROP Project
Trans-Ancestry Genome-Wide Association Study of Alzheimer’s Disease and Amyloid-Associated Risk in the All of Us Research Program
Alzheimer’s disease; whole-genome sequencing (WGS); APOE e4; genetic risk
Research Mentor: Yijiong Yang, Dr.
Department, College, Affiliation: College of Nursing, Nursing
Contact Email: yy22f@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Dr. Kofi Sorkpor Dr.
Faculty Collaborators Email: ssorkpor@fsu.edu
Department, College, Affiliation: College of Nursing, Nursing
Contact Email: yy22f@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Dr. Kofi Sorkpor Dr.
Faculty Collaborators Email: ssorkpor@fsu.edu
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors, biology or genetics research background more preferred.
Project Location: FSU Panama City campus or remote
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors, biology or genetics research background more preferred.
Project Location: FSU Panama City campus or remote
Research Assistant Transportation Required: No, the project is remote Remote or In-person: Fully Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Thursday, September 3
Start Time: 1:00
End Time: 2:00
Zoom Link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/293030415451892?p=5q8ihErGJciVRtFsYN Meeting ID: 293 030 415 451 892 Passcode: Ch98xo7N
Project Description
Amyloid-β deposition is central to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis, yet most genetic studies have focused on European populations and biomarker-defined cohorts. The aim of this study was to investigate the trans-ancestry genetic architecture of ADRD, identify ancestry-specific genetic variants associated with ADRD risk, and assess how WGS-derived APOE e4 modifies these associations across ancestries.Research Tasks: ADRD cases were defined using validated ICD-10 codes and cognitively unimpaired participants served as controls. APOE ε4 serves as a well-established proxy for amyloid-related genetic risk. Logistic and linear regression models, adjusted for age, sex, and population structure (principal components), were applied within major ancestry groups, followed by trans-ancestry meta-analysis. Interaction effects between SNVs and APOE ε4 status on ADRD risk and age at onset were evaluated.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Genetics background required.
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring philosophy is grounded in individualized development, mutual respect, intellectual curiosity, and increasing independence. I view mentoring as a collaborative relationship in which the mentor provides guidance, resources, and constructive feedback while helping mentees develop ownership of their work and confidence in their abilities. I begin by understanding each mentee’s goals, prior experiences, strengths, and areas for growth. Because trainees enter research with different levels of experience, I tailor my mentoring accordingly—providing more structure and hands-on guidance initially, then gradually increasing independence and responsibility as their skills develop. I encourage mentees to ask questions, critically evaluate evidence, and understand not only how to conduct an analysis but also why particular methodological decisions are appropriate. I also believe that productive mentoring requires a safe and supportive learning environment. Research inevitably involves unexpected findings, unsuccessful analyses, and mistakes. I encourage mentees to view these experiences as opportunities to refine their thinking rather than reasons to avoid challenging questions. At the same time, I promote accountability through clear expectations, regular communication, achievable milestones, and shared responsibility for research quality and integrity.Ultimately, my goal is not simply to help mentees complete a project, but to help them become increasingly independent researchers. I hope mentees leave the experience with stronger analytical and communication skills, greater confidence in asking meaningful scientific questions, and an understanding of how rigorous and inclusive research can contribute to improving health across diverse populations.