Data and Modeling Core

Summary Data and Modeling Core Montana is the most rural state in the West region, and improving overall health and reducing risks among rural populations requires a comprehensive understanding of how prevention strategies can be developed for, adapted to, and implemented in rural communities. There are many known disparities for rural communities with unique challenges from study development, implementation and data modernization perspectives, as well as challenges obtaining health-related data. Such factors require innovative study design, analytical, and modeling approaches. Current and future Center for Population Health Research (CPHR) investigators whose research is focused on factors impacting health in our rural region require support with accessing key data sources, innovative study design, and analytical approaches. The Data and Modeling (DM) Core was highly successful in Phase 1 implementing our Core, building a secure high performance computing cluster, providing the necessary data and analytical support, and developing necessary expertise in analytical approaches. We will continue to support CPHR investigators through the following three Specific Aims. In Aim 1, we will strengthen and expand current DM Core services through the development of a data and code repository to facilitate access to publicly available datasets at multiple spatial and temporal scales and the development of analytical and data processing expertise. In Aim 2, we will continue to provide CPHR investigators with data, analytical, and computational support as needed. We have added additional study design, biostatistical, and modeling expertise to strengthen the breadth of Core services. Finally, in Aim 3, we will ensure the long-term sustainability of the DM Core through implementation of a business plan based on a fee-for-service model. Through these three aims, the DM Core will provide CPHR investigators the data and analytical support needed to pursue independent research funding in the next phase of their research careers.