As biomedical research generates ever larger and more complex datasets, the challenge of how to publish these findings clearly and responsibly is becoming just as important as the science itself.
Dr Andrew Hufton addresses faculty members, students and researchers involved in data-intensive biomedical and health sciences research // Credit: Song Xiaoyu
This question took centre stage at an inaugural talk jointly organised by the newly established Centre for Biomedical Data Science (CBDS) and the Duke-NUS AI + Medical Sciences Initiative (DAISI). Held on 22 January, the session featured invited guest speaker Dr Andrew Hufton, Editor-in-Chief of Patterns, a premium open-access journal from Cell Press.
Drawing on his editorial experience, Dr Hufton shared best practices for publishing data-centric biomedical research, from considerations in study design and analysis to navigating the publication process. He also addressed the responsible and ethical use of generative AI in biomedical research and manuscript preparation, offering practical insights on scientific publishing to more than 40 researchers and students in attendance.
The event marked the start of a new CBDS-led series aimed at supporting researchers in translating complex biomedical data into meaningful and robust scientific insights.
Professor Enrico Petretto, Director of CBDS, said: “CBDS is committed to attracting, retaining and developing top talent in AI and data science who are not only capable of developing cutting-edge analytical methods, but also able to communicate and disseminate their research findings effectively.”
Echoing this, Associate Professor Song Xiaoyu, who hosted the session, noted that the talk closely aligned with the Centre’s mission. “Promoting methodological rigour, reproducibility and robustness in biomedical research is central to what we do.”
Formed in 2025 through the merger of the Centre for Quantitative Medicine and the Centre for Computational Biology, CBDS serves as a strategic hub for cutting-edge research, education and services in data science, AI and biomedical computation.
“As the School’s focal point for data science and AI, CBDS is well positioned to support Duke-NUS’ mission in precision medicine and translational research,” said Professor Patrick Tan, Dean of Duke-NUS. “By unifying our researchers under a shared vision, the Centre strengthens our alignment with national priorities in AI and Data Science.”
DAISI director Associate Professor Liu Nan introduces Dr Hufton ahead of his talk // Credit: Song Xiaoyu