BMS-530: Research and Biostatistics

This course is designed to enable students to design and evaluate biomedical research utilizing appropriate methodology and statistical analysis. Students will define key components of experimental design, select and justify the use of statistical tests for different data types, and create structured research proposals. A critical component is the ability to critically review peer-reviewed literature and assess experimental validity. This involves summarizing articles, evaluating them for bias and limitations, and comparing the methodological rigor across multiple studies. The course also focuses on teaching students to apply ethical and regulatory principles to research proposals and conduct, identifying key ethical principles and regulations (like IRB review or HIPAA), analyzing case studies for compliance, and developing mock IRB applications. This course directly supports program outcomes in applying scientific reasoning and research methodologies, communicating biomedical information, and interpreting ethical principles and federal regulations.