Navigating Adaptive Interventions: Statistical Considerations in Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trials Biostatistics Seminar – October 30th

Navigating Adaptive Interventions: Statistical Considerations in Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trials by Fridtjof Thomas, PhD, Professor, and Yuan Zhang, PhD, Assistant Professor in the Division of Biostatistics

Location: Freeman Auditorium, 3^rd floor of the 930 Madison Building

When: Thursday, October 30, 12:00 - 1:00 pm CT

Remote/Zoom: https://tennesseehipaa.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AWqNCO1PTDqD8QKBE8GQbw

Join us this Fall for the Statistical Reasoning in Biomedical Research Seminar Series by the Division of Biostatistics in the Department of Preventive Medicine! The second talk is titled "Navigating Adaptive Interventions: Statistical Considerations in Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trials". In clinical practice, patients often receive treatments in sequence, with each decision guided by their response to previous interventions. Such personalized, tailored treatment strategies are known as adaptive interventions or dynamic treatment regimes (DTRs). To rigorously develop and evaluate these adaptive approaches, a specialized trial design-the sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART)-has emerged as a powerful tool. This presentation introduces the conceptual foundation of DTRs, with a focus on how SMART designs facilitate learning about the optimal sequence of treatments. We will discuss key statistical considerations in designing and analyzing SMARTs, including sample size calculation, tailoring variables, and value estimation of embedded DTRs. Through real-world examples, we will highlight and decipher the unique statistical challenges involved in developing adaptive interventions.

Food: Pizza will be available starting at 11:45 am on a first-come, first-served basis.

Mark your calendar: Additional talks in this series are scheduled for 11/06/25, 11/13/25, and 12/04/25 (all 12:00 - 1:00 pm CT at the Freeman Auditorium).