Biostatistics, Epidemiology, & Research Design Core

Study Design: BERD faculty work closely with LA CaTS investigators to design efficient studies with the goal of maximizing information while minimizing resource utilization. This includes performing power and sample size calculations based on preliminary data, developing randomization and analysis plans, and designing epidemiological investigation methods. The BERD Core assists in the selection of inclusion/exclusion criteria in cohorts which are representative of the community population while still being conducive to the development of exploratory hypotheses (e.g., health equality).

Data Management: BERD faculty assist LA CaTS investigators with designing case report forms, establishing range checks and missing data assessment, and data validation to ensure data quality prior to analysis. The faculty can also assist in report building, study set-up, implementing study follow-up and DSMB/OSMB support. They work in collaboration with the data management groups, like those running REDCap, at each institution to ensure that data is properly formatted for efficient storage and retrieval for statistical analysis.

Statistical Data Analysis: Once data are collected, the BERD Core performs statistical data analyses and/or provides guidance to investigators who are performing simple analyses independently. Each BERD faculty member works one-on-one with each LA CaTS investigator to ensure each study has an analysis plan tailored to the needs of the individual study.

Interpretation of Results: BERD faculty assist in transparent interpretation and concise reporting of results. BERD faculty focus on subgroup analyses, specifically vulnerable and minority populations, to examine health disparities.

Manuscript Writing: BERD faculty members develop statistical methods sections and assist in writing results sections for joint publication of manuscripts related to LA CaTS research.

Grant Proposal Writing: BERD faculty assist in grant writing, including performing many of the functions required for planning studies. These functions include, but are not limited to, formulating aims and goals, hypothesis development, power and sample size calculations, and the development of statistical analysis plans.

The BERD hosts a seminar series that focuses on contemporary statistical and epidemiological techniques and elements of study design relevant to all LA CaTS investigators. These seminars are hybrid (both in person at a LA CaTS institution and virtual) in format whenever possible with sessions occurring semi-annually.

See past recorded seminars here.

The BERD faculty play an active role in the mentorship of early career researchers. This engagement includes serving on oversight committees for medical fellows, scientific review with feedback during pre-application process for LA CaTS grants, and working directly with post-doctoral fellows and early career faculty as BERD faculty assist with research projects.