Description
of the project and work required (including references)
Target trial emulation is a recent framework allowing a better approach to mimic the design and analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using observational data, and allowing a better causal inference analysis. The intern will:
1. Review literature on target trial emulation and its applications in clinical research.
2. With the support of the GBDS MMA CT team, identify a relevant clinical question and formulate a hypothetical target trial.
3. Use real-world datasets (e.g., CIBMTR or Flatiron) to emulate the target trial by specifying eligibility criteria, treatment strategies, follow-up, and outcome definitions.
4. Apply statistical methods (e.g., propensity score matching, inverse probability weighting) to estimate causal effects.
5. Compare results with published studies, if available, and discuss strengths and limitations.
6. Document the process and present findings to the Biostatistics/Data Science team.
References:
7. Hernán MA, Robins JM. Using Big Data to Emulate a Target Trial When a Randomized Trial Is Not Available.. 2016;183(8):758-764.
8. Dickerman BA, et al. Comparative effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs in the real world: Emulating a target trial using electronic health records.. 2019.
Skills/Knowledge Required (technical and soft skills)
9. Completing a Master degree or Ph.D. in statistics, data sciences, epidemiology or any similar area with a strong focus in statistics
10. Solid foundation in statistics (knowledge on causal inference is welcomed).
11. Proficiency in R and/or SAS (Python is a plus).
12. Ability to critically review scientific literature.
13. Good communication and presentation skills.
14. Teamwork and adaptability.
15. English skills is mandatory, any other European languages is a strong plus
Anticipated/expected outcome of the project (how would you define a successful internship?)
A successful internship will result in:
16. A comprehensive report and presentation introducing the emulation of a target trial using real-world data to other statisticians, and also clinical colleagues.
17. Insights into the validity and limitations of observational analyses compared to RCTs.
18. Recommendations for future applications in the organization.
19. Presentation at a stat conference and potential publication, depending on the findings.
Uniquely Interesting Work, Life-changing Careers
With a single vision as inspiring as “Transforming patients’ lives through science™ ”, every BMS employee plays an integral role in work that goes far beyond ordinary. Each of us is empowered to apply our individual talents and unique perspectives in a supportive culture, promoting global participation in clinical trials, while our shared values of passion, innovation, urgency, accountability, inclusion and integrity bring out the highest potential of each of our colleagues.
On-site Protocol
BMS has an occupancy structure that determines where an employee is required to conduct their work. This structure includes site-essential, site-by-design, field-based and remote-by-design jobs. The occupancy type that you are assigned is determined by the nature and responsibilities of your role:
Site-essential roles require 100% of shifts onsite at your assigned facility. Site-by-design roles may be eligible for a hybrid work model with at least 50% onsite at your assigned facility. For these roles, onsite presence is considered an essential job function and is critical to collaboration, innovation, productivity, and a positive Company culture. For field-based and remote-by-design roles the ability to physically travel to visit customers, patients or business partners and to attend meetings on behalf of BMS as directed is an essential job function.
Supporting People with Disabilities
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