Building Partnerships for Generative AI Training in Biomedical and Clinical Research

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The Biomedical Data Science Innovation Lab (BDSIL) is a pioneering initiative that combines the realms of biomedical research and data science. This unique experience brings together early career researchers and faculty members spanning diverse disciplines such as medicine, basic science, translational research, biomedical engineering, computer science, biostatistics, and mathematics. The primary objective of the BDSIL is to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and stimulate innovation by addressing specific challenges in the biosciences through the application of cutting-edge data science methods. The goal of the 2024 Biomedical Data Science Innovation Lab (BDSIL) was to foster the formation of new collaborations which will generate creative strategies on the use of data science approaches for creating new strategic partnerships between AI developers, biomedical researchers, and educators.

 

At the heart of BDSIL’s mission is the cultivation of new, multidisciplinary partnerships. These collaborations are meticulously facilitated to tackle challenges in biomedicine where data science plays a pivotal role. Thirty-one faculty and researchers from across the country were selected to participate in the 2024 cohort. Sixty-four percent of participants were early career or Assistant Professor researchers. They brought their ideas, data, creativity, enthusiasm, and team spirit to the June 2024 workshop in San Diego, California as they collaborated on the many issues surrounding generative AI in today’s context. Participants from iTHRIV institutions included:

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• Andrew Barros (UVA)

• Xuan Wang (Virginia Tech)
   

The BDSIL experience is characterized by a multifaceted approach. Participants engage in weekly webinars throughout the year featuring thought leaders in the field, gaining insights into the latest developments and best practices. Virtual ‘micro-lab’ activities spread throughout the year provide interactive opportunities to discuss data science approaches to real-world challenges, advancing interdisciplinarity, and innovative thinking. Finally, a cornerstone of BDSIL is the five-day mentored and facilitated grant and manuscript development workshop. This intensive collaborative setting serves as a catalyst for translating ideas into tangible outcomes.

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The emphasis on mentorship ensures that participants receive guidance from experienced professionals, enhancing the quality and viability of their proposals and manuscripts. The ultimate goal is to not only generate new knowledge but also to facilitate the development of projects that have the potential to secure extramural funding. The 2024 BDSIL Mentor Team was composed of five senior investigators that brought their experience, encouragement, and support to the developing participant teams. Mentors met with the teams as they formed to provide feedback, guidance, and direction. They reinforced the positive aspects of potential team projects while asking clarifying questions about areas in need of improvement. 2024 Mentors included: Dr. Prince Afriyie (University of Virginia), Dr. Besa Bauta (New York University), Dr. Maryam Vareth (University of California, Berkeley), Dr. Brian Wright (University of Virginia), and Dr. Qing Zeng (George Washington University).

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Additionally, at various times during the BDSIL, it is important to be challenged, pushed, and encouraged. That’s where provocateurs come in — Dr. Russ Altman (Stanford University) and Dr. Mona Kasra (University of Virginia) gave short, disruptive, and thought-provoking lectures about their experiences to further inspire innovation among participants.

The BDSIL experience facilitates the generation of new peer-reviewed research articles which underscores the commitment to contributing meaningfully to the scientific literature and the career paths of our participants.

 

Throughout all BDSIL activities, the concept of Team Science is omnipresent. Recognizing that complex challenges in biomedicine require collaborative efforts, the program fosters a culture of teamwork. Participants are encouraged to leverage diverse expertise, perspectives, and skills, emphasizing that breakthroughs often emerge at the intersection of disciplines. The BDSIL represents a dynamic and forward-thinking initiative at the crossroads of biomedical science and modern computational applications. By nurturing collaboration, fostering innovation, and embracing the principles of Team Science, BDSIL stands as a beacon in the quest to unravel the complexities of biomedicine through the transformative power of data science.

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At the conclusion of the 2024 in-person lab, participants created eight research projects and aim to develop these projects over the next few months and years with the intent to submit for funding and get published.

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Plans are underway for the 2025 BDSIL: Quantitative Approaches in Spatial Multi-Omics for Guiding Personalized Medicine. Applications are scheduled to open November 15th. Learn more by visiting the website: https://www.innovation.lab.virginia.edu/

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The BDSIL is led by Director John Van Horn, PhD, M.Eng at the University of Virginia. The BDSIL is based in the School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Data Science at the University of Virginia, and supported by a grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (R25GM139080) and iTHRIV (UL1TR003015).