biostatistics core
Advancing UD Research
The UD College of Health Sciences Biostatistics Core supports the mission of the College of Health Sciences by providing comprehensive statistical expertise and services to support high-quality research throughout the College.
The Biostatistics Core is staffed by Doctorally-prepared collaborative biostatisticians with extensive experience in health sciences research. Engaging with the Biostatistics Core early in the research process can significantly strengthen study design, improve statistical rigor, and increase the likelihood of successful funding and publication outcomes.
Mission
To advance research capabilities and address the critical biostatistical, methodological and data analytical needs in the UD College of Health Sciences, the university and community.
Services Provided
The CHS Biostatistics Core is available for discussion at all stages of research and provides:
1. Analytic expertise and effort on collaborative research
Partnership on study conceptualization, design, and implementation from initial planning through final analysis and results visualization
2. Grant and contract preparation
Power and sample size estimations, development of comprehensive analytic plans to address specific aims and research questions, and review of statistical sections
3. Data analysis and publication support
Comprehensive statistical analyses and contribution to methods, results, and discussion sections of peer-reviewed abstracts and manuscripts
4. Statistical Review
Expert review of manuscripts, presentations, and other research outputs prior to submission to ensure statistical rigor and accuracy
5. Help Desk
The CHS Biostatistics Core provides guidance on research methodology, statistical approaches, and sample code for data analysis. We enthusiastically support faculty, staff, students, and trainees with their statistical questions
Areas of Expertise
The Biostatistics Core faculty have expertise in a wide range of statistical methods and study designs, including:
- Observational data analysis
- Randomized clinical trials
- Longitudinal analysis
- Survival analysis
- Experimental data analysis – both group and individually randomized
- Quasi-experimental data analysis – including pragmatic trials
- Mixed models and their extension to hierarchical/nested/clustered data
- Measurement development and testing
- Latent variable and Structural Equation Modeling
- Mixture models
- Causal inference
- Mediation and moderation modeling
- Innovative research design and analysis
- Analysis of data with missingness
- Data visualization and presentation
Collaborative Guidelines
Authorship and Publications
The CHS Biostatistics Core follows the guidelines for authorship set by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors. In many cases, biostatistical support qualifies Core personnel as co-authors on publications. Authorship is determined based on intellectual contribution to study design, data analysis, and manuscript preparation.
Sponsored Projects
For collaborative research to be successful, adequate biostatistician time must be included in grant budgets:
- Large multi-year grants (e.g., R01s): Minimum of 5% effort each year is expected, often increasing to 10% or more in final years when analysis and manuscript preparation are most intensive
- Large center or research infrastructure grants: Biostatisticians are typically funded between 15-25% effort each year
- Smaller grants (<$250,000/year): 5% effort per year is expected; we will work with PIs if budget limitations exist
The Biostatistics Core is staffed by experienced professional biostatisticians and graduate students with experience to advance the research mission of the College of Health Sciences. We look forward to working with you.
To schedule a consultation, please email biostats-helpdesk@udel.edu with the following information:
- Brief description of your research question or project
- Current stage of research (planning, data collection, analysis, manuscript preparation)
- Anticipated timeline or deadlines
- Any specific statistical questions or concerns
We will respond promptly to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your needs and determine how we can best support your research.
Acknowledgement
Manuscripts or grants presenting work supported by the Biostatistics Core should include the following statement: “This work was supported by the Biostatistics Core at The College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware."
Frequently Asked Questions
As early as possible! Ideally during the study design phase, before data collection begins. However, we can assist at any stage of your research.
A brief description of your research question, study design (if developed), and any relevant background materials. Don't worry if you're just getting started—we're here to help you develop these elements.
We typically can schedule initial consultations within 1-2 weeks. For urgent grant deadlines, please indicate this in your email and we will do our best to accommodate.
For questions or to request services, contact: biostats-helpdesk@udel.edu
ADDITIONAL LINKS
Connect
Tower at STAR: 100 Discovery Blvd, Newark, DE 19713 | Health Sciences Complex: 540 S. College Ave, Newark, DE 19713 chs-info@udel.edu Phone: 302-831-1060