Regency C
PICC: A Peer-Run Support Model for Statistical Collaborators (303966)
*Amy Michiko Lehman, The Ohio State University
Julie Ann Stephens, The Ohio State University
Keywords: consulting, mentoring, collaboration
The PICC (Practical Issues in Consulting and Collaboration) Series was developed by two senior biostatisticians in response to a need for increased support, fellowship and mentoring among a group of consulting statisticians housed in an academic environment. The goal of PICC is “To provide an informal, relaxed environment for statisticians to ask questions and share experiences, knowledge and practical tips about collaborating with investigators.” Meetings are run by statisticians and group discussion is encouraged. The first meeting was held on November 28, 2018; a total of 4 meetings have been conducted so far. Attendance is voluntary; an average of 20 members have attended each meeting (out of 35 total). Topics covered include report writing, version control (data management and best practices), and manuscripts/authorship. In a recent satisfaction survey, almost all respondents (15/16; 94%) said they were "Satisfied" or "Very Satisfied" with PICC. The PICC Series demonstrates a feasible, practical way for statisticians to share knowledge and mentor/support each other as they face issues and challenges in collaboration.