The Biostatistics Shared Resource provides biostatistical support to cancer center investigators. Our primary responsibilities include both study design and statistical analysis, described in more detail below under services. Biostatistical support is essential for cancer researchers to develop rigorous study designs, to efficiently manage data, and to make maximum use of data collected for informed conclusion. Early statistical input into the design of experiments increases the efficiency of investigations and improves the quality of research. For example, proper calculation of sample size assures that important effects can be detected, if present, and statistical critiques often reveal ways in which power or generalizability can be improved.
Our services span all types of cancer research including cancer clinical trials, cancer prevention studies, epidemiologic studies, animal studies, and other laboratory studies. HCC members are encouraged to utilize the Biostatistics Shared Resource for development of cancer related grants and protocols (to be submitted to federal as well as private agencies), and help in answering the biostatistical related questions and suggestions of the external reviewers.
Study Design:
· assistance in the determination of statistical design
· sample-size determination new projects
· randomization and blinding (masking) schemes for interventional
· development and integration of novel methodology in study design, as needed for innovative research problems
Statistical Analysis:
· application of rigorous statistical methods to cancer-related data, and coordination of the statistical evaluation and activities related to cancer
· development and integration of novel statistical methods as needed for specific projects.
· assistance in the integration of statistical interpretations into scientific conclusions and publications including research manuscripts and reports to internal and external funding and overseeing agencies
Additional Cancer Center Support
Beyond providing biostatistical support to investigators in the cancer center, the Biostatistics Shared Resource plays other important roles in supporting HCC research, as detailed below.
- Reviewing and maintaining the high quality of the statistical procedures used in the trials and studies conducted within HCC initiated by HCC investigators
- Reviewing and ensuring the appropriateness of the statistical procedures used in the trials and studies participated by HCC and initiated by outside investigators (Shared Resource members participate in the Protocol Review Committee meetings of the HCC and they review the biostatistical aspect of every protocol to ensure correctness, efficiency and high ethical standards).
- Training of investigators in roles of statistics in cancer research, data management and quality assurance (DBBE courses offered specifically for basic scientists and clinical investigators (e.g., Masters of Science in Clinical Research) are aimed at continuing education
