Biostatistician

To be a successful Biostatistician you should…

• have ability and a strong interest in science
• have the ability to follow a problem to conclusion
• have the ability to work with a variety of people
• have the ability to work with governmental regulations
• have the ability to think logically
• have the ability to speak and write effectively
• have the ability to exercise patience, flexibility, and a willingness to work in different locations under a variety of conditions

What will my job be like?

Biostatisticians help develop research studies to study patterns of diseases and treatments for diseases. Biostatisticians apply mathematics and statistics to the compilation, analysis, and reporting of health-related information.

Biostatisticians might estimate what percentage of a certain population is likely to develop a disease, consider the likelihood of disease transmission, and look at data from clinical trials and studies to determine the best method of intervention.

Biostatisticians also use their expertise in sampling and statistical significance to assist health investigators in designing studies.

Where could I work?

Biostatisticians are usually employed in local and state health departments, federal or state agencies, private industry, and research.

Other workplace settings:

• Colleges and Universities
• Biopharmaceuticals

What is the average annual salary?

$93,300

What is the future of this career?

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not specifically collect employment information on biostatisticians, there is a positive outlook with greater advancement opportunities and projected to grow 33 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 5,200 openings for mathematicians and statisticians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

Biostatisticians receive their education through academic programs at colleges or universities. Biostatisticians must earn at least a bachelor’s degree, and most academic programs require a master’s or doctoral degree.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic
• Sacred Heart University, Fairfield
• Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven
• University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport
• University of Connecticut, Storrs
• University of St. Joseph, West Hartford
• Yale School of Public Health, New Haven

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.

Where can I get more information?