Biostatistician

A biostatistician uses his or her knowledge of statistics to study the realms of biology, disease and health. Much like the work of other statisticians in various disciplines, biostatiscians draft studies and obtain relevant data for analysis and conclusion-drawing. This enables them to work side-by-side with epidemiologists to come to accurate, scientific conclusions that can benefit human beings everywhere.

What Does a Biostatistician Do?

Biostatisticians have a minimum of a Master's degree as well as familiarity in using statistical software packages to tackle analytical problems. More complex data analyses often require the expertise of a Ph.D. biostatistician.

While some biostatisticians might work for the private sector (in pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies, for instance), many jobs are also available in governmental capacities. In fact, another viable option for biostatisticians is to work for non-profit organizations. These organizations usually work from grant money, obtained by private charities or government programs.

Especially with the power of a Ph.D., a biostatistician working for a non-profit can oftentimes craft his or her own desired subject of analysis and means of study. Of course, conditions laid out by the funder will need to be met, so as to satisfy grant objectives. Regardless, these studies oftentimes shed light on social issues, medical conditions, prescription drug reactions, family and mental health issues, and disease or disorder research.