Work with PEDSnet

Key to the PEDSnet mission of improving the health of the nation’s children is creating a multi-institutional network of health systems that collaborate with patients, families, and clinicians. As PEDSnet seeks to create a culture of sharing and collaboration across geographic, organizational, and specialty boundaries, our network aims to serve as convener, bringing together stakeholders to identify important research questions, design and conduct studies, and disseminate findings. 

PEDSnet studies benefit from close collaboration between investigators and PEDSnet data scientists from the early stages of study design through final analyses and reporting. Unlike public data repositories, individual-level datasets are not typically released outside the network. Due to the complexity and privacy concerns associated with electronic health record data, certified PEDSnet data scientists lead the execution of data analyses. For more information about the topics covered in our PEDSnet data science training, please see our videos on YouTube

As a first step toward working with PEDSnet, we ask that investigators complete a PEDSnet Collaboration Request Form. This form will serve to gather information about your collaboration needs and determine next steps. Each type of collaboration request is described below. For general questions about PEDSnet or the collaboration request process, email the Project Management Office (PMO) at pedsnet@chop.edu 

Types of Collaboration Requests

PEDSnet conducts a wide range of research studies; the PMO will work with investigators to determine the exact needs for their collaboration request. Typical requests can involve one or multiple of the following research outputs:

  • Evaluation of PEDSnet data available for use in a planned study (feasibility query)
  • Aggregate results of data analyses
  • Development of a computable phenotype (re-usable computerized search queries that detect specific clinical events or conditions using electronic health record data)
  • Identification of eligible patients to facilitate study recruitment
  • Linking existing dataset with PEDSnet data
  • Manual review of medical records (chart review)


Link to PEDSnet Collaboration Request Form


Submission & Review Process - What to Expect

Administrative reviews typically take 3 business days once a Collaboration Request Form is submitted. The PMO will contact you if additional information is needed to complete the administrative review. Once the administrative review is complete, the PEDSnet Research Committee will review and approve the proposal concept. Administrative review and concept approval by the PEDSnet Research Committee must be obtained prior to provision of a letter of support and other materials needed for grant applications. 

The review process includes evaluation of the following criteria:

  1. Alignment of research concept with the PEDSnet mission and vision 
  2. Feasibility of request fulfillment using PEDSnet data and resources
  3. The availability of adequate financial resources to fulfill the request, which will vary depending on the level of complexity involved.
  4. Research aims that are impactful to patients and families 

If your proposal is approved by the PEDSnet Research Committee, a project manager will be assigned to your request and will assist with next steps in the request process.