Using real-world data to transform medical evidence generation
The ORBIT (Observational Research Building Interdisciplinary Therapeutic Advances) is a Duke interdisciplinary hub focused on harnessing real-world data to generate high-level clinical evidence. Bringing together researchers with complementary expertise in artificial intelligence, statistics, economics, data science, population health, and clinical medicine, ORBIT works toward two central goals:
- Developing tools and techniques to answer research questions that would traditionally require randomized controlled trials, and
- Making those trials more efficient through real-world data and AI-driven methods.
For researchers and collaborators, ORBIT represents a resource for rigorous, innovative approaches to evidence generation, including methodological expertise, educational programming, and opportunities to engage with a cross-disciplinary team at the forefront of real-world data science. Whether you are designing a study, seeking analytical partnerships, or exploring how observational data can complement or inform a clinical trial, ORBIT's work is directly relevant to the challenges of modern clinical research. The team also hosts a monthly seminar series on topics in observational research and causal inference, as well as an annual Winter School. Both programs are open to the broader Duke community and beyond.
ORBIT is one of three programs selected by the Duke Office of the Provost to receive a Multiyear Interdisciplinary Hubs grant — a competitive award designed to catalyze research, education, and external partnerships around emerging areas of strength at Duke. The DCRI contributes project management support and collaborative infrastructure to advance the program's mission.