BADBIR / Data and publications / Using BADBIR data / Data access FAQs

Data access FAQs

Frequently asked questions for BADBIR data access applications.

Who can apply to use the BADBIR data?

We welcome applications from all members of the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD).

The application form asks if you are a member of BAD because this helps with internal audits of membership activity.

How do I apply to use the BADBIR data?

There is a two-stage process for applying to use BADBIR data:

  1. Submit an informal enquiry to Zin Mon, Research Manager (research@bad.org.uk). Include:

    • Information about you as the applicant (clinical/academic)
    • A brief outline of your research question
    • Funding status (e.g. have/need/applying for funding)
    • Whether you’ll analyse data yourself or need BADBIR support
  2. If encouraged to proceed, submit a data access application form for Steering Committee review.

Approved applications proceed to pharma company review, data sharing agreements, and eventual data release. The Steering Committee meets in February, June, and October. Submit your form at least four weeks prior.

How can I prepare my research question?

Review the following resources to help develop your research question:

How should I frame my research question?

Here’s how to structure your proposal and answer Q4.5 (Statistical Analysis Plan):

  • Type of project:
    • Descriptive – trends without causal inference
    • Causal – does x lead to y?
    • Prediction – diagnostic/prognostic modelling
    • Other – e.g. health economics
  • Study design:
    • Cohort study
    • Case-control study
    • Cross-sectional study
    • Case series
    • Other
  • Key elements to describe:
    • Intervention: e.g. patients starting ixekizumab
    • Comparator: e.g. patients starting guselkumab
    • Outcome: refer to data dictionary to confirm availability
  • Confounding and missing data handling
  • Eligibility criteria for inclusion

What format will the data be provided in?

Data extracts are prepared by the BADBIR team as one file per table (see the Data Dictionary). Files use a tab-separated format to enable upload into common statistical software.

How will we assess your application?

Applications are reviewed against the BADBIR aims, analytical robustness, and funding status by the Steering Committee.

How long will it take before I receive the data?

Allow approx. six months for approvals and agreements. Once signed, data is delivered within six weeks by the University of Manchester BADBIR team.

Do I have to be an experienced researcher?

No, but your experience level will help us assess support needed to progress your submission.

What does it cost to use the BADBIR data?

There may be a case-by-case charge to cover operational costs for data extraction.

Why does the form ask about commercial collaboration?

Disclosure is essential. BADBIR has contracts with pharma funders, and currently cannot approve access for non-partner commercial organisations or employees of pharma companies not linked to BADBIR.

Do I need to consult my local institution?

Yes. Your Trust/University will receive anonymised datasets and must sign data sharing agreements. Early local consultation avoids delays.

Does it matter if I’ve used BADBIR data before?

No limit on the number of applications, but please disclose prior use for cross-referencing and tracking.

Should I involve patients/user groups?

Strongly encouraged. Public involvement improves research relevance and dissemination. See HRA guidance.

Is your project a multinational cohort requiring data aggregation?

If using pooled international data (e.g. via PsoNet), please describe how aggregated data will flow between institutions.

What is the deadline for applications?

BADBIR Steering Committee meets several times per year. Submit applications at least four weeks prior to the meeting.

BADBIR research questions

This document outlines the current active research questions.