Statistical modeling always presents hurdles that slow down even the most promising research. That’s where the Center for Biostatistics and Health Data Science (CBHDS) at Virginia Tech hopes to lend a helping hand. Through open Zoom Drop-In Hours, CBHDS offers short, accessible consultations that can make a lasting impact.

We caught up with two researchers, Caroline de Jager and Gabriel Borba, who have repeatedly tapped into the walk-in hours to keep their work on track. Here's what they had to say about the experience.

What prompted you to visit the CBHDS walk-in hours?

Caroline de Jager, Postdoctoral Researcher (Neuroscience): 
We had started to do more sequencing work in our lab, single-cell and other high-throughput techniques, and the data was just beyond my skill set. I needed help moving from basic Excel plots to something far more advanced, using R and other tools. That’s when I dropped in for the first time.

Gabriel Borba, PhD Candidate (Fish & Wildlife Conservation): 
I was modeling climate change impacts on inland fisheries using a massive dataset, and I didn’t have the statistical or coding background to handle it. I saw an email about CBHDS drop-in hours and thought, “Why not try?”.

What was your experience like working with the CBHDS team?

Caroline: 
I worked with Missi [Zhang], and she was amazing. At first, we focused on figure building, but it quickly evolved into full-blown data analysis. She helped me get connected with ARC because my computer literally couldn’t handle the load.

Gabriel: 
They really walk with you through every step. Missi and Emmanuel [Nartey] helped me troubleshoot R errors, optimize my models, and understand what my data was actually telling me. They never did the work for me, but they gave me the tools and confidence to do it myself. That made a huge difference.

What makes the walk-in hours stand out compared to other support services?

Caroline: 
The consistency. Even though they’re 30-minute sessions, being able to return to the same person and build a relationship was huge. It kept me moving forward. I’d hit a wall, stop in, and walk out with a clear path again.

Gabriel: 
There are other resources at Virginia Tech, but nothing this hands-on. With CBHDS, they checked my data, ran test models with me, explained the results, and gave me direction. It’s rare to find that kind of support. I’ve already recommended it to others.

How would you sum up the value of this resource for other researchers?

Caroline: 
Critical. That’s the word I’d use. For biologists and neuroscientists like me, people coming from wet labs who suddenly have to handle massive datasets, CBHDS is what makes that transition possible.

Gabriel: 
Essential. Without their help, I don’t think I’d have made as much progress on my dissertation. They not only saved me time but helped me actually understand the process. It’s a resource every student should know about.

Any final thoughts?

Caroline: 
Even though it’s “just” 30 minutes, those sessions have had a huge impact on my research trajectory. I’d encourage anyone working with large datasets or new analysis methods to check it out early in their project.

Gabriel: 
I honestly wish I had found it sooner. If there’s one thing I could add, it’s this: the team is incredible, and the word needs to spread more. Every student struggling with modeling, statistics, or data interpretation should know that this kind of support exists.

If you're facing a challenge with your research goals, study design, data management, presenting your findings, or just want to learn more about our services, Zoom Drop-In Hours might be your next best step.

If you want to work with the Center, please click here.