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Mapping trans-methylation quantitative trait loci in the human genome

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Melody Heeju Hong · Wantagh, New York
Sixth Place ($80,000) · Regeneron Science Talent Search · 2025

Abstract

A statistical model for locating trans-methylation quantitative trait loci — genetic variants that influence DNA methylation at distant sites rather than nearby ones.

Why it worked
ResearchForge's reading of the public record — not the students' words, and not the judges' reasoning.

Trans effects are weaker and far harder to detect than local ones, which is exactly why they are under-mapped. Choosing the harder signal is a defensible reason for a methods project to exist.

Key methods
  • Statistical model development
  • Trans-QTL mapping
  • DNA methylation data analysis
  • Multiple-testing correction
What to take from this
ResearchForge's reading of the public record — not the students' words, and not the judges' reasoning. Borrow the habits and decisions, never the project itself.
  • Targeting the effect everyone else filters out is a legitimate niche
  • Statistical genetics lives on multiple-testing correction; say how you handled it before you are asked

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Compiled by ResearchForge from the Society for Science public award announcement linked on this record. Names, hometowns, project titles and reported results are as published. The "why it worked" and "what to take from this" notes are ResearchForge's editorial reading of that public record — they are not statements by the students and not the judges' rationale. All rights to the original projects remain with their authors; no project materials are rehosted here.