Upcoming Workshops
All workshops below are tagged with colored shapes corresponding to the major thematic research areas of NIMLAS. Specific critical topics for future research that the particular product within each area is addressing are provided in text next to the colored shapes.
Data collection methods for improving representation
Addressing increasing attrition rates
New measurement technologies
Consent to additional data collection
Improving measurement in longitudinal studies of aging
Biomarkers and population-based research: Lessons learned and recent innovations in the collection and analysis of capillary blood samples
This is a hybrid workshop. Zoom details will be shared with NIMLAS members prior to the event date. The workshop recording and related materials will be made available on our website 1-2 weeks after the workshop.
Friday, December 11, 2026, 10 am EST
1430 ISR-Thompson
Thomas McDade
Ph.D., Carlos Montezuma Professor, Northwestern University
Abstract:
In 2003, the National Research Council published the edited volume Cells and Surveys, which asked the question “Should biological measures be included in social science research?” Few people are asking that question any more. This presentation reflects on 25 years of biosocial research integrating biomarkers into longitudinal cohort studies, and discusses current methodological options for collecting biological data at scale, in non-clinical settings. Particular attention will be given to minimally-invasive approaches to collecting and analyzing capillary blood, an area where recent technological and computational advances are presenting new opportunities for implementation and discovery.
, Consent and Attrition , Return of Results , Differential Effectiveness of New Technologies , Motivation for New Technologies