Integrated Immune Profiling of Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBI) in a Southeast Asian Cohort

About the Project

Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBI), including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Functional Dyspepsia (FD), are common chronic conditions that significantly impact quality of life. Emerging evidence suggests that DGBI are associated with immune dysregulation, low-grade inflammation, and altered gut–brain–immune communication^1-3.

Most current data on DGBI immunology are derived from Western populations. However, these findings may not fully translate to Southeast Asian cohorts, where differences in diet, microbiome composition, environmental exposure, and genetic background may influence immune responses. As such, the systemic immune profile of DGBI patients in this region remains underexplored.

This study aims to address this gap by taking an integrated approach, combining serum cytokine profiling and immune cell phenotyping. Rather than focusing on individual markers, the project will examine whether distinct immune patterns (endotypes) can be identified and related to clinical features.

Main Supervisor: Professor Chow Sek Chuen, Monash University

Associate Supervisors: Associate Professor Dr Fang Chee-Mun, Associate Professor Dr Chong Chun Wie, Dr Ho Keat Lam

How to Apply

It is suggested that you first contact the main supervisor and provide them with your academic background and achievements to determine whether you are a 'fit' for this research topic.

If you feel you are a good fit, submit your application here and ensure that you enter the same research topic as advertised on this webpage. To review the application requirements, please refer to our application submission guide. More information about the scholarships and the course application process is available here.

Funding Notes

Successful applicants will be awarded a Graduate Research Excellence Scholarship (GRES).

GRES recipients will receive a full tuition fee waiver and a monthly stipend for up to 3 years 6 months.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for GRES, you must possess a minimum academic qualification of First Class Honours (H1) or its equivalence (H1E) recognised by Monash University Malaysia and satisfy the English language requirements.