She brings extensive expertise in study design and analysis across clinical trials, observational studies and translational research, with particular strengths in genomics, correlated longitudinal data and complex data structures. Dr. Fernandez has over two decades of experience supporting multidisciplinary research, including large, multisite clinical and population health studies and has led the development and implementation of data coordinating centers that enhance scientific rigor and reproducibility.
Dr. Fernandez’s academic focus centers on advancing methodological approaches to complexbiomedical data and integrating biostatistics into team-based science. She holds other leadership roles, including Director of the Center for Biostatistics and the Comprehensive Cancer Center BiostatisticsShared Resource; and has led multiple biostatistics and data science cores of multi-site program projects (P01s , U54s and SPOREs). Her work spans diverse disease areas, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, mental health and substance use and includes leadership in large-scale NIH-funded initiatives such as cluster randomized trials and PCOR net-based research networks.
As Director of the Data Coordinating Center (DCC) within the Multisite Trials Coordinating Center (MTCC),Dr. Fernandez will leverage her extensive experience to oversee data management, statistical design and analytic strategy across studies. She will work closely with investigators to support all phases of research, including study design, data integration, interim monitoring, analysis and dissemination, ensuring robust, efficient and impactful multisite clinical research.