# Innovations in Integrative Association Testing for Large Genetic Data

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Worcester Polytechnic Institute (MA) · $174,999

## Abstract

This project will develop new statistical tools to enhance the power and precision of discovering disease-associated genes. By integrating diverse sources of genomic information and improving how prior knowledge and statistical evidence are combined, the project aims to uncover subtle genetic signals that might otherwise be missed. These innovations have the potential to transform the understanding and treatment of complex diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders. The project supports national interests by promoting scientific advancement and improving health outcomes. It also fosters education in statistics, data science, and bioinformatics, supports workforce development, and promotes collaboration across disciplines and sectors to enhance the societal impact of statistical research.

The research will advance statistical theory, methodology, and computation for integrative association testing in heterogeneous genomic data. It focuses on two core challenges: (1) designing more effective weighting strategies for incorporating prior information when combining statistical significances, and (2) developing new methods to integrate discrete statistics within a general hypothesis testing framework. The project will implement and apply these approaches to harmonized whole genome sequencing datasets, with a focus on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and related neurodegenerative diseases. It also supports interdisciplinary education and research infrastructure by connecting expe

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2515791
- **Awardee organization:** Worcester Polytechnic Institute (MA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** HJNQME41NBU4
- **PI:** Zheyang Wu
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Machine Learning Theory, Biotechnology
- **Estimated total:** $174,999
- **Funds obligated:** $174,999
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 08/15/2025 → 07/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2515791

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2515791, Innovations in Integrative Association Testing for Large Genetic Data. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2515791. Licensed CC0.

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