Biostatistics, Epidemiology, & Study Design (BESD) Support Services

As a key partner with YCCI, the Biostatistics and Study Design Core enhances Yale’s infrastructure for clinical and translational research in three ways:

• developing new methods and tools for study design and data analysis
• working closely with YCCI to provide consultative services for clinical and translational investigators
• offering courses in biostatistics epidemiology, and health economics to students, fellows, faculty members, and research staff throughout the Medical Center

The Biostatistics core includes faculty members who are developing new methodologies and collaborating actively on a wide range of clinical research projects. It also employs staff scientists to assist clinical investigators in the development of appropriate research designs and in data analysis. They are based in the YCCI’s Office of Research Services to facilitate interactions and to create a link between clinical investigators and the Core’s research faculty.

The mission of the Biostatistics Core is to promote valid and efficient science through the assurance of sound biostatistical design. An interactive relationship between a biostatistician and investigator originating in the design phase and progressing through the reporting of results is essential to our goal. To facilitate this relationship, the Biostatistics Resource upholds three main responsibilities: the provision of consultation to investigators with regard to study design, data management and data analysis; the review of all incoming protocols to assure appropriate biostatistical design; and the training of young investigators in the methodology of design and analysis.

We encourage clinical researchers to seek the aid of a statistician early in the development of a protocol to identify and minimize methodological limitations. James Dziura, Ph.D. is available for scheduled consultations to assist YCCI investigators with:

• Protocol development for applications
• Simple data analysis for approved studies
• Grant preparation for studies expecting to utilize the facilities
• Manuscript preparation

If you are looking for a quick introduction to basic (and some advanced) statistical topics, you may consider enrolling in the summer short course “An Introduction to Biostatistics.” This two week course co-sponsored by the Investigative Medicine Program provides an overview of common statistical techniques used in clinical research. Computer lab sessions are included to reinforce lecture material in a practical setting. Medical students, fellows, post-docs, professors and research assistants are all welcome to attend.

Investigators: Remember to make sure that all criteria listed on the biostatistical checklist are addressed in your protocol submissions.

Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Study Design (BESD) Contact

• Jim Dziura, PhD
  2 Church St. South, Suite 411
  Phone: (203) 737-4468
  james.dziura@yale.edu