The primary goal of the Biostatistics Core is to address the critical statistical support needs of the research projects sponsored by the MSM/TU/UAB Partnership and to facilitate close statistical interactions and collaboration among the three institutions to enhance cancer research capabilities and competitiveness.  Additional goals are to provide educational opportunities in biostatistics for members of the partnership and participating students and to strengthen the biostatistical capabilities at the partnership institutions.

Objectives:
The Biostatistics Shared Resource (BSR) draws strong biostatistical and data management expertise from the well-established Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Unit of the O' Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB to facilitate the development of a solid biostatistical and data management infrastructure at MSM and TU to support their investigators in cancer research.  The objectives are:

1. Provide statistical consultation and collaborative support for pilot developmental projects regarding study design, data management and statistical analysis.
2. Provide biostatistical mentorship to junior investigators regarding sound applications of statistical principles in cancer research;
3. Participate in the RTCD Program and to offer training courses in biostatistics, epidemiology, clinical trials, and bioinformatics;
4. Participate in the community-based participatory programs by developing an effective website to disseminate pertinent information related to each program.
5. Enhance biostatistical support capabilities at MSM and TU in collaboration with the well-established Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Facility at the O' Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center.