Target trial emulation: a framework for causal inference from observational data

Target trial emulation: a framework for causal inference from observational data

Principal speaker

Dr Harrison Hansford

Seminar Overview

Target trial emulation: a framework for causal inference from observational data

It has been suggested that non-randomised (observational) studies of interventions should aim to mimic the design characteristics of a randomised trial. The target trial emulation framework was developed to help researchers follow these design characteristics to avoid common design-related biases. Target trial emulations are being increasingly published in medicine however their reporting is poor. Harrison will introduce the target trial framework, discuss how it has been implemented in the medical literature to date and describe the development of the world's first reporting guideline for these studies, TARGET.

Speaker Biography

Harrison is an NHMRC Postgraduate Scholar in the final year of his PhD at Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) and the School of Health Sciences at University of New South Wales (UNSW). His PhD focuses on improving the evidence-based management of musculoskeletal conditions. He is also interested in improving research reporting and quality to help improve trust in science. As part of this, Harrison is co-leading the development of the TARGET reporting guideline, an international collaboration which aims to improve the reporting of studies emulating a target trial.


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