Frequently Asked Questions

How do we request services?

To request any of the BCI-SRF services please submit a service request form

How do I submit a protocol for ITTs?

Chart showing the review process for investigator initiated protocols

Following are itemized steps of the BDW review process:

  1. All Interventional Investigator initiated research protocols must be reviewed by the Biostatistics Design Workshop (BDW) prior to submission to the DFG with exception for protocols that underwent scientific and biostatistical review by one of the following organizations.
  2. Collaborators should submit requests for statistical support for ‘PROTOCOL DEVELOPMENT’ through service request form
  3. DFG biostatistician is assigned and develops statistical sections of protocol
        1. Only Interventional (I-IIT) require BDW (DFG and PRMC) approval and need to contain the Essential Elements of a Protocol (industry provided protocol template), or be in proper PRMC format: Protocol Template
        2. The IRB format (HRP-503a) is NOT an acceptable format for I-IITs
  4. DFG Biostatistician submits protocol for BDW review when it is deemed ready by biostatistician and PI
  5. Once a protocol is approved by BDW, it can be presented at DFG
        1. On BDW approval, all track changes are accepted
        2. A version number and date of BDW approval is added to the protocol
        3. The BDW approved protocol is emailed to the PI, DFG Chairman and PRMC administrators
  6. After DFG approval, the protocol can be submitted for PRMC review (contact Venesha White Venesha.white@mssm.edu for information on this submission process)
How can I get help with statistical questions?

The TCI-BCI-SRF will host biostatistics walk-in clinics every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 1PM-2PM to help researchers with statistical questions. The clinic will be held virtually via Zoom.

Before attending the Biostatistics Walk-In Clinic, please complete this registration form online

This will ensure that we are prepared to assist you and can make best use of the walk-in clinic time.

How can I submit a topic of interest for future trainings?

The TCI-BCI-SRF hosts a monthly Journal Club to discuss an exciting recent publication. The Journal Club will be held virtually via Zoom.

If you are interested in suggesting a topic for future Journal Clubs or attending an upcoming meeting, please complete this form online: https://forms.office.com/r/zsBe00LAZX

How can I discuss an idea for grantsmanship?

TCI-BCI-SRF provides a free clinical informatics consultation service via Zoom to assist TCI members and researchers with development of initial ideas for grant applications using clinical informatics and large cancer databases.   

To schedule time with one of our experts:

  • Submit your name and request through this online form. This puts your request into our service tracking system and helps us to understand your project’s needs.
  • After completing this form, you will be prompted with a Calendly link to schedule time.
  • 45 minutes of consultation is offered free of charge per project.

Get help with:

  • Identifying grant opportunities and discussing successful grant applications 
  • Developing initial ideas for grant applications  
  • Predictive analytics using administrative and electronic medical record data 
  • Evaluation of digital technologies for collection of adverse event and patient-reported outcome data 
  • Other innovative clinical informatics methodologies using above-listed datasets 
  • Database selection and access