One of CBQM’s strengths is its flexibility. The center works with investigators at every stage of their careers, from early-career trainees and faculty pursuing career development awards to established investigators leading large, multi-center studies. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all services, CBQM works with each investigator to try and match their scientific needs with the expertise and infrastructure of the CBQM.
The center’s five specialized cores support research throughout the project lifecycle:
- Biostatistics Core: Conducts statistical analyses ranging from straightforward evaluations to sophisticated modeling.
- Data Management and Information Systems (DM/IS) Core: Develops advanced data collection and management solutions.
- Qualitative Research Core: Supports stakeholder engagement, participant interviews, transcription, and coding.
- Data Coordinating Center: Serves as the central data and analysis hub for multi-site clinical trials.
- Patient-Reported Outcomes (PRO) Core: Develops and validates patient-reported outcome measures in various content domains using the advanced psychometric theories.
While each core offers distinct expertise, many projects benefit from collaboration across multiple CBQM teams. Investigators often engage CBQM faculty as co-investigators, gaining access to integrated statistical, data management, and research infrastructure that strengthens study design and execution.
The newest initiative at CBQM is the addition of the Patient-Reported Outcomes (PRO) Core, led by Dr. Lan Yu. The PRO Core is expanding the center’s capabilities in survey development and validation while working with other CBQM teams to build systems that allow patient-reported outcomes to be collected and analyzed in real time.
CBQM’s collaborative model is exemplified by its role as the Scientific and Data Research Center (SDRC) for an NIDDK-funded consortium focused on improving post-hospital discharge care for patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). The multidisciplinary team includes expertise from the CBQM and the Renal-Electrolyte Division and oversees protocol development, patient advisor engagement, and implementation of a clinical trial spanning 10 sites nationwide.
What sets CBQM apart is its philosophy. Rather than viewing itself as a “service core,” the center functions as a team of collaborative scientists and research professionals who contribute directly to study design, implementation, and analysis. That approach helps investigators produce stronger, more rigorous science while advancing the Department of Medicine’s research mission.
Researchers interested in learning more about CBQM’s expertise and resources are encouraged to connect with the center early in the research planning process.