Biostatistics is the science that applies statistical theory and mathematical principals to research in medicine, biology, environmental science, public health, and related fields. Biostatisticians working in the area of public health develop and use mathematical and scientific methods to:
- determine risk factors for disease and injuries, and
- identify health trends within communities.
Biostatisticians working in the area of medicine develop and use mathematical and scientific methods to design and analyze:
- clinical trials to investigate new therapies for treating acute and chronic illness,
- observational studies to understand disease onset and progression,
- basic science studies to determine the mechanisms of disease, and
- human genetics studies to investigate the inherited susceptibility to disease.
Career opportunities are available in universities, academic medical centers, government, and private industry. The demand for individuals with graduate-level degrees in biostatistics is extremely high.