Improving the reliability of research through better study design and statistical methods
Official title: Ensuring Reproducible Research through Rigorous Study Design, Statistical Analysis Planning, and Data Presentation within a Team Science Framework
Funded at Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-10947722 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on improving how scientists conduct research in neuroscience by creating helpful resources that teach better ways to analyze data, so that the results are more trustworthy and can lead to better treatments for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $67,498 |
| NIH project number | 1UE5NS138231-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947722 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals involved in or affected by neurological conditions, as well as those interested in the outcomes of neuroscience research.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neuroscience or those not engaged in clinical research may not see direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the rigor and reproducibility of scientific studies, particularly in neuroscience, by developing educational resources that teach proper statistical methods and study design. The project aims to address common issues such as inadequate sample sizes and misuse of statistical techniques, which can lead to unreliable results. By fostering collaboration among biostatisticians, epidemiologists, and data scientists, the research will create a framework for effective team science that improves the quality of research outcomes. Patients may benefit indirectly as more reliable research leads to better-informed clinical practices and treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more reliable and effective treatments for patients by ensuring that clinical studies are designed and analyzed correctly.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that improving statistical training and study design can significantly enhance the quality and reproducibility of scientific findings, particularly in fields like neuroscience.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
Blacksburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hanlon, Alexandra L — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Hanlon, Alexandra L
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Histotripsy + immune boost to fight osteosarcoma
A new treatment idea combines a precise non-surgical ultrasound method with an immune-boosting compound to help fight bone cancer in people and dogs.
-
Understanding how front-thalamus connections affect thinking and behavior in schizophrenia
Researchers are studying how the prefrontal cortex and mediodorsal thalamus work together to support thinking, memory, and behavior in schizophrenia, with the goal of finding new ways to help people who have cognitive difficulties.
-
Data-driven hormonal modeling of vaginal tissue changes across a woman’s life
A data-driven, physics-informed computer model will map how hormones drive vaginal tissue remodeling across puberty, reproductive life, and menopause to help predict risks and tailor therapies.
-
Supporting flood recovery in rural areas through health data and knowledge sharing
Aimed at people in rural Appalachian regions affected by inland flooding, this project will use health data and rapid information sharing to inform recovery and future planning.
-
Adaptation of PATH-Pain for Dementia Family Caregivers Living with Persistent Pain and Negative Emotions
Aimed at helping dementia family caregivers who live with ongoing pain and negative feelings by adapting a pain-management program to fit their caregiving needs.
-
Genomic surveillance for antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture pathogens
This project aims to build a DNA-based tracking system to spot antibiotic resistance in bacteria that affect fish farms, helping protect animal health and food safety.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.