Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center (BEDAC).
Who We are
The Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center (BEDAC) has been a resource since 1984, providing research services to academic, government, foundation, and industry partners. Our focus on research integrity, through implementation of a quality management framework, ensures regulatory compliance and conformance with requirements in order to meet research objectives. BEDAC provides expertise during all phases of the project life cycle and either leads or serves in a supportive role as necessitated by the scope of work, while utilizing our standard operating procedures (SOPs).
BEDAC has five units, each led by directors with at least 15 years of experience.
- Biostatistics and Statistical Reporting
- Applications Development & Information Technology
- Data Science & Data Management
- Project Management
- Finance & Administration
What We Do
Since its inception, BEDAC has participated in over 1,000 small- to large-scale research investigations, spanning internationally. BEDAC leverages existing relationships with faculty members and content experts across various Boston University schools and departments to provide services around seven core competencies.
- Project Management provides the structure through which study operations are planned and implemented. Project Management fosters effective communication and information exchange to ensure project deliverables are completed on-time and within budget.
- Regulatory Affairs ensures that investigations satisfy ethical standards and comply with federal regulations, institutional polices, funder requirements and data sharing obligations.
- Data Management encompasses the development, implementation, and maintenance of the Data Management Plan (DMP) to ensure data integrity, quality, and traceability throughout the entire data life cycle. The DMP provides documentation of data sources, describes the software development lifecycle, data collection and data cleaning procedures and ensures validation of final datasets to meet Investigator/Sponsor requirements.
- Applications Development provides electronic data capture solutions for a wide range of projects and programs providing data collection, participant and specimen tracking, and data dashboards. Applications Development plays a crucial role in modern technology, enabling the center to automate tasks, solve problems, and enhance productivity through custom web-based software. All stages of the software development life cycle are followed, including Planning and Analysis, Design, Development, Testing, Deployment, Maintenance and Updates.
- Reporting includes tables, figures, and listings (TFLs) for data management and analysis; Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) reports; study progress and status reports required by regulatory agencies and funders; statistical findings from primary and other analyses using both static and interactive platforms; and manuscript collaboration.
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology provides methodologic and technical expertise with respect to study design; development and implementation of statistical analysis plans (SAP); and subsequent dissemination of analytic findings, including assistance with writing and editing manuscripts for publication. We ensure all studies are well-documented and transparent for investigators and audiences.
- Data Science and Data Warehousing incorporates big data processing, storage and retrieval solutions and applies machine learning applications to provide insights. BEDAC, in collaboration with the University of California San Diego (UCSD), is in the process of developing a novel cloud-based digital warehouse that will store and manage large amounts data including Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) data. The goal is to provide a cost-effective and user-friendly resource that meets regulatory requirements and optimizes a secure environment for complex and high-impact research data.
How to Collaborate with Us
Investigators
- Complete the Proposal Request Form or email BEDACprp@bu.edu
- Business Development will be in contact within ten business days to set up an initial meeting
- Timelines for the development of proposal materials will be determined in partnership and will require compliance with the Office of Sponsored Programs and Industry Engagement policies and procedures (if applicable)
- Once award is funded, the Scope of Work (SOW), budget, other proposal materials (grant sections) and initial timelines will be reviewed and updated as required
- BEDAC activities for new awards commence 30-60 days post award notification
- BEDAC activities for on-going awards require annual review of SOW and budget
Employment and Student Opportunities
Employment. We are always looking for talented individuals to join our team. Current positions listing
Student Opportunities. We support practicums, internships and paid research positions. Please send inquiries to hrbedac@bu.edu
General Inquires
For questions pertaining to potential collaboration with BEDAC, please contact:
Ayesha Chowhan
Director of Strategic Initiatives
(617) 358-9453
achowhan@bu.edu
For questions pertaining to administration, please contact:
Joanne Cipriani
Director of Business Operations
(617) 358-9450
cipriani@bu.edu
Center Address
Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center
Boston University School of Public Health
85 East Newton Street, M921
Boston, MA 02118