Specialized guidance for trauma investigators tackling real research challenges

CNTR is committed to advancing traumatic injury research that saves lives and decreases disability. To assist both surgeon-scientists and the researchers that support them in study design, conduct and analysis, we are launching the CNTR Research Methodology Webinar Series, a series designed to provide the specialized expertise that will help researchers conduct studies with impact.

Our aim is for each one-hour session to spotlight a real-world research challenge submitted by an investigator. A subject-matter expert provides a focused framework and practical guidance related to epidemiology, statistics, novel research designs and more, followed by a live coaching segment and Q&A with attendees.

What to Expect (60 minutes)

• Investigator challenge case (7 minutes): A trauma investigator presents a specific study barrier they’re working through.
• Expert teaching segment (20 minutes): A subject-matter expert shares a practical approach, tools, and common pitfalls.
• Coaching mode (10 minutes): The expert provides personalized guidance and next-step recommendations.
• Open Q&A (15–20 minutes): Attendees ask questions, share experience, and explore resources.

Who Should Attend

• Established or early-career surgeon-scientists and trauma investigators
• Research faculty and trainees building toward independent funding
• Study coordinators and research team members supporting trauma studies
• Multi-site collaborators looking to strengthen protocol design and execution

Topics We Cover

• Addressing the heterogeneity of trauma and burn populations to create comparable cohorts and control for confounding in observational studies
• Applying causal inference approaches when randomized controlled trials are not feasible
• Understanding pragmatic and adaptive trial designs that may be suitable for acute care settings
• Integrating large data sources such as trauma registries and electronic health records
• Improving outcome selection and measurement, particularly for longer-term and patient-centered outcomes
• Ensuring data standardization across centers in multi-center studies
• And more!

Submit a Challenge

Have a study obstacle you’d like expert input on? CNTR welcomes challenge submissions from investigators at any stage—from early concept to active enrollment. Selected cases receive expert feedback during the session, with actionable takeaways for the broader investigator community. Submit your topic below.

Join a session. Submit a challenge. Move your study forward.