Data Analytics Training And Professional Development (DATA-Pro) for Behavioral and Social Sciences Research

The exponential growth of biomedical and socio-behavioral data in the United States (US) presents new opportunities for understanding behavioral and social drivers of health. However, the fragmented nature of these data sources and the lack of specialized training limit their full potential in behavioral and social sciences research (BSSR). The Data Analytics Training and Professional Development (DATA-Pro) for behavioral and social sciences research (BSSR) program aims to bridge this gap by providing advanced training in big data methodologies. Hosted by the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), DATA-Pro will deliver structured e-learning modules on big datasets, research designs, traditional modeling, and novel machine learning and artificial intelligence approaches, covering responsible conduct of research and methods for enhancing reproducibility. Participants will gain hands-on experience through expert-guided research projects and develop essential skills in research dissemination. MUSC offers a conducive environment for training, myriad data resources, and robust teaching and research infrastructure, which is ideal for advanced training in data sciences. The program will prepare researchers to apply cutting-edge data analytics to answer complex social and behavioral research questions. By equipping researchers with the necessary skills to harness big data, DATA-Pro has the potential to accelerate discoveries, inform policy, and advance BSSR. Project Number: 1R25CA310466-01 | Fiscal Year: 2026 | NIH Institute/Center: National Cancer Institute (NCI) | Principal Investigator: Kalyani Sonawane | Institution: MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA, CHARLESTON, SC | Award Amount: $215,976 | Activity Code: R25 | Study Section: Special Emphasis Panel[ZRG1 BP-Y (51)] View on NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11319354