The Clinical Investigation (CI) Core provides services and expertise to conduct clinical studies as well as access to longitudinal databases for epidemiologic and outcomes research.
The Clinical Investigation (CI) Core’s mission is to accelerate innovative, high-quality, person-centered clinical, translational, and implementation science (IS) research to prevent new HIV infections, advance the quality and health span of persons affected by HIV, dismantle barriers to care, and promotes interventions, and approaches to end the HIV epidemic.
The Cl Core is primarily administered at the UC San Diego AntiViral Research Center (AVRC). The AVRC has multiple examination rooms, laboratory and pharmacy facilities, a data center, conference room, library, and freezers for temporary storage of specimens. Part of the AVRC clinic’s mission has been to document historical outcomes for thousands of patients who have received HIV care at the clinic and through the UC San Diego Medical Center. A variety of clinical, laboratory, and administrative datasets have been assembled since 1990 on more than 6,000 patients. These databases were assembled to improve quality of care and to facilitate observational research on natural history, treatment outcomes, quality of life, and costs of care. Access to de-identified datasets is available to researchers through CI Core services.
Clinical Data, Specimen Repository, and Investigator Access
The CI Core provides access to rich clinical data and biospecimen resources that support HIV-related research across diverse populations. These resources are not limited to the Owen Clinic; rather, they are part of a national, well‑characterized research network that enables investigators to assess feasibility and pursue analyses efficiently.
Clinical Data and Biospecimen Repository
The University of California San Diego CFAR participates in the CFAR Network of Integrated Clinical Systems (CNICS), a multi-site clinical cohort that integrates:
- Longitudinal clinical data derived from routine HIV care
- Demographic, treatment, and outcomes data
- Linked biospecimens collected using standardized protocols
Information about available datasets, specimen types, and participating sites is maintained centrally through CNICS.
Comprehensive and up-to-date details are available via the CNICS website:
This site provides investigators with:
- Detailed descriptions of available specimen types (e.g., plasma, serum, PBMCs)
- Information on populations represented (e.g., age, sex, race/ethnicity, transmission risk, comorbidities)
- Data elements and collection time points
- Governance and access procedures
How Investigators Determine Sample Availability
Investigators—including early stage and those new to SD CFAR—do not need prior engagement to assess feasibility. Sample and data availability can be determined by:
- Reviewing CNICS documentation (linked above), which outlines specimen inventories and cohort characteristics.
- Consulting searchable resources provided through CNICS (e.g., structured data dictionaries and feasibility tools).
- Engaging directly with the CI Core (submit a service request here!) to discuss specific populations or scientific questions.
We recognize that navigating large repositories can feel like a barrier, particularly for emerging investigators. To reduce this, our CI Core team can help investigators identify whether samples relevant to a specific population or research question are available and guide next steps.
How to Request Access
Access to CNICS data or biospecimens follows an established review process coordinated through the CI Core and CNICS governance. The CI Core provides hands-on support with:
- Feasibility discussions
- Determining appropriate datasets or specimen types
- Navigating submission and approval processes
- Connecting investigators with methodologic or analytic expertise
Contact Us
We strongly encourage investigators to reach out early with questions—particularly if you are unsure whether samples or data exist for your population of interest.
Our goal is to make these resources accessible and to actively support investigator engagement, from project conception through implementation.
Cite CNICS
Support CNICS by citing them in your publications, abstracts and grants.
