Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Research Design Core

Biostatistics, Epidemiology, & Research Design Core Project Summary The objective of the Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Research Design (BERD) Core of the Great Plains IDeA- CTR (GP IDeA-CTR) is to develop the infrastructure to conduct high-quality clinical and translational research (CTR) and enhance the development of competitive CTR programs and research teams across Great Plains. During the initial funding period, the BERD Core successfully leveraged its members' expertise to provide essential support to advance CTR research across the GP IDeA-CTR network. The BERD Core closely collaborates with the other Cores in team science approaches to continue and expand the support to advance CTR further and address regional health priorities of the Great Plains region. In addition to supporting scientific research and developing BERD methodology research, we collaborate with all the Cores and the Pilot Projects Program to support training in study design, grant development, and mentoring of early career CTR investigators. The BERD specific aims are 1) Consult and collaborate on study design, data acquisition, and data analysis to support investigators and teams throughout the GP IDeA-CTR network; 2) Lead or facilitate the development of cutting-edge methodologies and tools in response to the needs of the GP IDeA- CTR research community; 3) Provide education and mentoring to GP IDeA-CTR investigators on best strategies for study design and analysis for the full range of CTR through a team science approach; 4) Provide training on access and utilization of health data sets to follow regional health priorities to facilitate the design and implementation of robust and critical CTR. In achieving these aims, the BERD Core plays an essential role in transforming CTR in the Great Plains region by creating universal access to critical expertise, tools, and resources. This access will benefit GP IDeA-CTR investigators to conduct successful CTR and equip GP IDeA- CTR early career investigators with essential skills to develop their CTR careers.