NEWS - Strengthening the The International Population Data Linkage Network (IPDLN)

What is the IPDLN?

The International Population Data Linkage Network (IPDLN) facilitates communication between centres that specialise in data linkage and users of the linked data. The Network provides a space for discussion, exchange of ideas, and learning within the common interest of data linkage for the betterment of population data linkage research. Since 2008 when the inaugural meeting was held, the IPDLN has grown to over 1,000 members from all over the world.

Every two years, directorship of the Network moves sites. We were delighted to report in October 2021, that our SCADR Director, Professor Chris Dibben would be Co-Directing the the Network alongside Dr Emma Gordon, Director of the ADR UK Strategic Hub. Their aim is to maintain and expand the IPDLN’s membership, promote and support the International Journal of Population Data Science, and run the next IPDLN Conference in Edinburgh from 7 September 2022.

What is data linkage?

Data linkage is an invaluable tool for research across and between many different disciplines. It is typically population based longitudinal data that has originally been collected for another purpose. Linkage may take place across data sets in a single domain (i.e. health) or across domains (i.e. health, education, environment etc.). 

Data linkage provides an inclusive and detailed picture of the population, is cost-effective relative to other data collection mechanisms, and enables studies to be done that could not otherwise be performed.

What is the IPDLN Conference?

The IPDLN conference brings together population data science experts and researchers from across the world to network and share their research with their colleagues.

This year, the conference will be held in Edinburgh from 7 September 2022, allowing engagement among peers in the network to continue. To learn more about the conference theme and details of how to submit abstracts, presentations or registration - please visit www.ipdln.org/2022-conference or by following Twitter @IPDLN.

They are also hosting pre-conference workshops on Monday 5 September (Virtual) and Tuesday 6 September (in-person) sessions.