ECHO DAC (Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes Data Analysis Center)

The complementary expertise and resources of Johns Hopkins University and RTI International are combined as the NIH Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Cohort Study Data Analysis Center (DAC). A DAC with expertise in informatics, epidemiology and biostatistics is essential for effective longitudinal and multi-level analyses to elucidate the influences of life course environmental and social exposures, and genetic susceptibility on pediatric health and adverse outcomes, with attention to solution-oriented research. System enhancements, a secured computing environment, and experience with on-boarding sites will facilitate an efficient, and effective transition from the first cycle (ECHO1) into the next cycle (ECHO2). DAC’s familiarity with existing ECHO sites and data enables continued productivity concurrent with implementation of ECHO2. DAC uniquely offers deep experience in developing innovative methods for analyzing data combined from disparate sites, as evidenced in ECHO1. DAC will broaden access and useability of ECHO Cohort data to the scientific community. To help drive the next generation science in pediatric research, expertise in epidemiology, statistics, informatics, pediatric outcomes, environmental exposures, and genetics is synergized to realize these specific aims: 1) Provide a secure, uniform and flexible central framework for data capture and storage and tracking of biospecimens, and to ensure high data quality and fidelity; 2) Provide statistical and epidemiological expertise in the design, analysis, and interpretation of research proposals, develop innovative and novel analytical methods where needed, and conduct analyses under direction of relevant content area scientists to enhance the scientific rigor and reproducibility of ECHO products; 3) Enhance research infrastructure, integrate data standards to support findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR) principles to accelerate data sharing; 4) Use an organizational, reporting, and accountability structure for optimal internal governance of the DAC and interaction with other components of the ECHO Cohort Study that will enhance transparency, accountability, and clear communication. The proposed enhancements, tools, and methods development for collecting, combining, and analyzing individual, geographic, family, and social data will be key in making ECHO the premier resource for impactful epidemiological studies of pediatric health.