Biostatistics Dept. Seminar: The Brave New World of Real-World Data: Design and Methods for Trustworthy Evidence

Biostatistics Department Seminar 

Title: The Brave New World of Real-World Data: Design and Methods for Trustworthy Evidence

Abstract: Real-world data (RWD) are ubiquitous, creating exciting opportunities to advance science and society through data-driven decision-making. However, data quality and availability vary across populations and settings, creating significant risks of bias. In this talk, I will highlight examples where evidence from clinical trials and epidemiological cohorts can be augmented with RWD to enhance both the timeliness and generalizability of findings, and I will describe statistical and design-based strategies to harness the potential of RWD while safeguarding reliability. I will discuss approaches for extending evidence from randomized trials to trial-ineligible populations, hybrid controlled trial designs that integrate RCT and RWD components, and methods that combine RWD with deeply characterized epidemiological cohorts to address data quality limitations. Illustrations from cancer and aging research will highlight the opportunities and pitfalls of this evolving evidence ecosystem and emphasize that the contribution of RWD to evidence-based decision making rests on the rigor of the methods with which they are analyzed.

Speaker

Rebecca A. Hubbard is the Carl Kawaja and Wendy Holcombe Professor of Public Health and Professor of Biostatistics and Data Science at Brown University. Hubbard’s research focuses on the development and application of methods to improve analyses using real world data sources including electronic health records (EHR) and medical claims data. 

Zoom Registration

If you would like to join via Zoom, please register here.

2025-2026 Monday Seminar Series

All seminars are held at 12:05 PM via Zoom and onsite. View all seminar information here.