Dr. George Davey Smith

Professor

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Biography

George Davey Smith is a clinical epidemiologist focused on methods to improve causal inference studies related to disease etiology and prevention. His work has involved the early implementation of 'negative controls' in epidemiological studies, cross-context comparisons, sensitivity analyses, and unobtrusive data collection methods in randomized trials. He pioneered the use of germline genetic variants to investigate modifiable causes of disease (known as 'Mendelian randomization') and has developed extensions of this basic method, contributing to its application in various settings. He advocates for the pre-specified application range of these methods, addressing potential biases and utilizing a triangulation approach to strengthen causal inference. Throughout his career, he has promoted the use of increasing data and has led notable studies such as the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC).

Research Interests

Requirements for University of Bristol

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:19
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:22
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:88
Prerequisites
Upper second-class MSci honours degree in physics or related discipline Or a relevant postgraduate MSc
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Academic transcripts
  • Two academic references
  • Personal statement
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Research statement/proposal
Specialization Notes

Department of Physics research themes include Astrophysics, Materials and Devices, Particle Physics, and Quantum and Soft Matter.