The Advanced HEAlth Data (AHEAD) Research Institute at Saint Louis University School of Medicine is the biostatistics core for data-driven innovation and research to improve the health of individuals and populations.
The institute unites SLU researchers from various fields and disciplines to improve patient and population health, advance health care quality and decrease health care costs. Through collaborations with national research networks, the institute utilizes and develops data resources, novel analytic methods, predictive modeling, machine learning, and integrated, wearable health devices. To request our services, complete the Data and Research Support Interest (DaRSI) form.
Mission
The AHEAD Institute underscores the University’s commitment to addressing public health
issues and improving patient health outcomes — especially those that disproportionally
affect poor and underserved communities — in alignment with the University’s Jesuit
mission. To achieve this commitment, the AHEAD Institute relies on health care data
for its truly remarkable potential to enhance physician efficiency and improve patient
outcomes. The AHEAD Institute specializes in creative and responsive solutions for
scientific problems faced by academic, industry, government and nonprofit organizations.
The AHEAD team comprises faculty, researchers, staff and doctoral students who are
experts in statistics, medicine, public health, economics, program evaluation and
research methodology. Our blend of academic rigor and personalized service yields
actionable results.
The research conducted at the AHEAD Institute spans various disciplines and topics,
including epidemiology, public health, economics, geospatial intelligence, health
services management and health outcomes.
From Big Idea to Biostatistics Core
Saint Louis University’s AHEAD Institute originates from the internal Big Ideas competition,
designed to uplift University-wide strategic research priorities. SLU’s ability to
invest in research was greatly enhanced in 2018 when Dr. Jeanne and Rex Sinquefield
made a historic $50 million gift to accelerate research growth at the University and
establish the SLU Research Institute. The AHEAD Institute is among the projects supported
by the SLU Research Institute.
Since then, the AHEAD Institute has expanded to provide data and research support
services across the St. Louis region. In 2023, the Saint Louis University School of
Medicine designated the institute as the biostatistics core. Today, the institute
offers expert guidance in study design and data collection while expanding its team
and extending research endeavors across various fields.
Our AHEAD monthly newsletter is dedicated to informing you about the latest developments, achievements and upcoming events within the institute. Our mission to stay connected and share our successes is our priority, and this newsletter gives us the opportunity to engage with valued faculty, staff, researchers, and students like you. To contribute events and announcements to future newsletters, email ahead@health.slu.edu.
February 2024 AHEAD Newsletter