Dear SCDM Community,

SCDM’s mission has always been clear: to shape, empower, and equip the clinical data professionals of the future. Within this mission, Vision 2030 charts our path forward, and JSCDM plays a central role, serving as both scientific anchor and catalyst for the knowledge our global community depends on.

This role is especially critical today. In his recent State of the Industry address, 2026 SCDM Chair Ward Lemaire described this moment as the Golden Era of Data – defined by rapid acceleration and extraordinary opportunity. Clinical data professionals are not just keeping pace with change; they are leading it. JSCDM helps power that leadership by turning ideas into insight and capability. That is why the journal is foundational to SCDM Knowledge and key to delivering Vision 2030.

As we look ahead, we also take a moment to thank Claudine Moore, who recently stepped down from her role as JSCDM’s Chief Editor. During her tenure, she expanded the journal’s visibility and impact, launched innovative publication models such as Digital First, strengthened collaborations, including with the MRCT Center, and introduced collections that linked JSCDM content with SCDM’s events around the globe. Her steady leadership supported significant growth in readership and contributed to the journal’s credibility and reach. We are grateful for the strong foundation she leaves behind.

This Winter Issue brings together a diverse selection of work that reflects the evolving questions, innovations, and responsibilities shaping our field. You’ll find research exploring patient-centered trial design, insights into the ethical use of large language models, updates to foundational standards, and perspectives on AI governance, realworld data, and FAIR data practices. These contributions highlight both the complexity and the promise of the ecosystem we are collectively shaping.

As we continue this journey, we warmly invite you to be part of JSCDM’s future. Whether you are advancing your own clinical data career, driving transformation within your organization, or contributing to global best practices, your expertise helps strengthen the profession and accelerate our shared progress. We encourage you to submit your work and help shape future editions of the journal.

In addition, we are currently seeking a new Chief Editor for JSCDM. We encourage those interested in shaping the journal’s next chapter to stay connected. Follow SCDM on LinkedIn for updates.

The future of clinical data is something we build together – and every contribution helps bring Vision 2030 to life.

With appreciation for your continued engagement and partnership,

The JSCDM Team