Center for Biomedical Data Science

Using big data to detect and treat diseases earlier, faster, and better.

About Us

The Center for Biomedical Data Science (CBDS) is joint research initiative through the University of Oregon (UO) and Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU), dedicated to using advanced data science to understand biological systems across all scales. Through integrating world-class expertise across the state of Oregon, CBDS aims to prevent and cure diseases earlier, faster, and better. The center is made possible by $20 million in lead gifts from Tim and Mary Boyle. In 2026 with the opening of Knight Campus Building 2, CBDS will have a permanent and physical home.

The Problem

Diseases like cancer and heart disease often begin when just a few cells go rogue. While researchers can collect huge amounts of data on these cells the struggle is how to use it. Advanced data science tools like machine learning can help this deluge of information into a wave of medical breakthroughs.

Our Approach

We’re bringing together scientists across Oregon to integrate biomedical big data with advanced computational tools to better understand medical images, genetic data, and disease patterns. We are training the next generation of researchers while speeding up the development of better treatments for cancer and other serious diseases.

Our Vision and Principles

We aim to make Oregon a global leader in data-driven biomedical discovery, where collaborative research powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning transforms our understanding of disease and delivers life-saving breakthroughs. Through cutting-edge graduate training programs, we will cultivate the next generation of biomedical data scientists who will drive innovation forward. By supporting entrepreneurship and translating discoveries into real-world solutions, we ensure our research creates tangible impact for patients. Through the united expertise of our institutions and the scientists we train, we strive to create a future where cancer and other deadly diseases are detected earlier, treated more effectively, and ultimately prevented.

Our Mission

Support collaboration among researchers across Oregon to harness AI and big data for breakthroughs in cancer and other life-threatening diseases, train the next generation of biomedical data scientists and foster entrepreneurial approaches to rapidly translate discoveries into life-saving treatments that benefit society.

Areas of Emphasis

Collaboration

In addition to bridging UO and OHSU, CBDS will unite UO’s strengths in basic science, applied research, and high-performance computing—leveraging the Knight Campus and the School of Computer and Data Science to drive large-scale proposals, shared projects, and integrated graduate training.

Training

CBDS is building a dynamic training environment where faculty in computer science, applied math, and genomics mentor students on real-world challenges. With UO and OHSU faculty serving as Fellows, and a new home in Knight Campus Building 2 opening in 2026, CBDS will train the next generation of biomedical data scientists using advanced computing and machine learning tools.

Innovation

CBDS incorporates the Knight Campus’s innovation focus by advancing new methods for collecting large-scale biomedical data and developing cutting-edge computational, statistical, and data science approaches to analyze it. Strong industry partnerships will help translate these breakthroughs into real-world health solutions.

Impact

CBDS partners with industry, clinicians, and researchers across Oregon to turn big biomedical data into real-world health solutions. These collaborations support the development of personalized care and interventions that improve patient outcomes.