Data Science Lab
The Data Science Lab supports rigorous, transparent and reproducible research at VCU through the promotion and development of methods, tools and training programs consistent with best practices in generating robust research findings.
Training
Training is a central focus of the DSL’s activities. Training opportunities in data science methodology at VCU include data science-specific degree and certificate programs, coursework, workshops and custom training plans. Additionally, DSL will partner with VCU’s Institutional Research and Academic Career Development Award program (PI: Joyce Lloyd) to provide Open Science Workshops at two historically Black colleges and universities (Virginia State University and Virginia Union University) to engage undergraduates in research.
Workshops
DSL regularly hosts workshops. Introductory level workshops familiarize participants with the rationale for and benefits of investing in reproducible research, as well as popular tools for increasing transparency, efficiency and reproducibility. Advanced workshops build on the techniques and tools taught in DSL courses and introductory workshops. The most popular workshop offered by DSL is the introductory workshop to the Open Science Framework.
Graduate courses
Current course offerings include our yearlong data science series, which is open to all graduate students regardless of concentration or degree program. Additionally, members of the VCU DSL contribute to the university’s Responsible Conduct of Research courses to ensure all trainees understand the importance of reproducibility, replicability and open science.
Related VCU degree and certificate programs
Human Genetics (concentration in quantitative genetics)
Integrative Life Sciences (concentrations in behavioral and statistical genetics and bioinformatics and genome sciences)
Biostatistics (includes both research and industry tracks)
Human Genetics (concentration in genomic data science)
Computer Science (data science)
Biostatistics (genomic data science, certificate)
Customized training plans for departments and research groups
DSL is committed to providing rigor and reproducibility training to all VCU researchers, and we understand that each individual, lab, research group, department and degree program may have unique concerns and needs. We are happy to work with you to provide custom training opportunities that speak to the particular challenges, requirements or concerns you have. For more information about custom training options, please contact us at datascience@vcu.edu with the subject line “Custom training inquiry.”
Graduate Ambassador Program
The Data Science Lab Ambassador program seeks to build a network of diverse interdisciplinary researchers committed to open and transparent data science practices. Ambassadors support DSL initiatives through serving as teaching assistants in DSL courses, presenting their work at open science conferences, participating in DSL training events as facilitators or trainers, and engaging the research community in discussion by organizing and presenting at university journal clubs. In turn, DSL provides ambassadors with training and travel support so they can share their research with research communities beyond VCU.
Reproducible research
Project management and grant support
The Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation and VCU Libraries jointly sponsor universal access to the Open Science Framework for all VCU faculty, students and staff. OSF is an amazingly flexible platform that facilitates project management from conception through publication. Specifically, it provides tools to organize data and materials, to provide accurate and adequate documentation, and to communicate efficiently. VCU community members interested in learning more about OSF and how it could positively impact project management should attend a DSL workshop and check out the VCU Libraries OSF guide.
For more information about DSL training resources or to discuss DSL support for research or training grants, contact us at datascience@vcu.edu.