The Perinatal HIV Research Unit Opens a New Innovative Data Management Lab
- FHS Communications
The Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU) officially opened its new DataLab on May 10th. This move was made in response to the Unit’s need to consolidate its expanding data management capabilities, particularly as its various research applications began to flourish.
The idea, which emerged in 2022, was simple yet profound: to bring together a team of data professionals in a single, dedicated space to foster creativity, collaboration, and efficiency.
By early 2024, this vision became a reality with the establishment of the PHRU DataLab, which has since contributed to numerous projects ranging from routine data collection to groundbreaking data initiatives.
In addition to the data support services already in place at PHRU, the lab expands its focus on creating innovative data collection tools and strategies, with a strong emphasis on AI-oriented approaches. The DataLab is already making significant strides, implementing two multi-site studies within South Africa and a project that spans eight African countries. These advancements build on optimized and scaled-up solutions, such as a REDCap-powered call centre. Other innovative solutions include using Quadratic Voting to determine participant preferences, employing Machine Learning to read Urinary LAM results, collecting sky images to predict air quality, and developing a vehicle parking tool for PHRU operations.
According to Floris Swanepoel, PHRU Data Manager and an initiator of the DataLab, the idea was inspired by experiences at various conferences where he noticed the pride other institutions took in showcasing their dedicated data spaces. "I wanted to create a space and identity that people could associate with the work done here—a place that exudes pride when mentioned," says Swanepoel. He adds that the "boutique" data service provider concept resonated with him as it emphasises creativity, pushing limits, and exploring what’s possible while still adhering to standard practices.
The DataLab is essential in advancing research by uncovering new insights and addressing existing data gaps. It enhances PHRU's bioinformatics capacity, aiming to match the level of innovation that our researchers strive for. The DataLab unifies data management and statistics into one cohesive unit, fostering creativity and efficiency and allowing each expert to focus on their strengths.
必博娱乐,比博娱乐网址 the PHRU DataLab
The PHRU DataLab offers a comprehensive range of services centred around REDCap, including:
- Database development
- Remote study visits via the REDCap Call Centre
- Visit scheduling and reminders
- API integrations with lab partners and other data sources
- IoT device integrations
- Dashboarding and reporting
- Metadata collection, processing, and de-identification for AI projects (e.g., DICOM X-Rays, audio, general imagery)
- Biostatistics, including DSMB reports
The DataLab is led by Professor Kennedy Otwombe, Mr Floris Swanepoel, and Ms Khuthadzo Hlongwane, each bringing unique expertise to the team. This team comprises a blend of data management professionals, biostatisticians, and counsellors working in the call centre. It is an all-in-one service provider for projects, particularly those aiming to push their data further.
The DataLab's boutique approach ensures that it caters to special data needs, offering innovative solutions that stand out in the research community.
Big plans ahead
The PHRU DataLab is proud to collaborate with renowned institutions such as the Africa Health Research Institute and the University of Johannesburg, among others. The vision for the future is to expand the lab beyond REDCap, with plans to become Medidata-certified developers and potentially obtain Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISK) and Operational Data Model (ODM) certification.
There are also plans to launch an internship program for postgraduates, which would provide them with upskilling opportunities while benefiting from their fresh perspectives on modern data practices.
For more information or to collaborate with the PHRU DataLab, please contact datalab@phru.co.za.
