Biostatisticians
Biostatisticians use math, coding, and critical thinking to study health and life sciences. They design research studies with doctors and scientists, plan how much data needs to be collected, and choose advanced methods—such as logistic regression, mixed-effect models, and longitudinal analysis—to answer questions about diseases, treatments, and public health. They lead the data side of projects by building databases, writing analysis plans, programming in tools like R, SAS, or Python, and turning complex results into clear graphs, reports, and recommendations that guide real-world medical decisions.
Did you know?
Most biostatistician positions in the US require at least a master's degree in biostatistics, statistics, or related field, with many employers preferring candidates with doctoral degrees.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$94,100 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Top skill
Mathematics
Things to consider
Industry vs. Academic Career Paths
American biostatisticians can choose between higher-paying pharmaceutical industry roles focused on drug development or academic/government positions emphasizing research and public health policy.
Regulatory Knowledge Expectations
US biostatisticians must understand FDA guidelines and other federal regulatory frameworks that govern clinical trials and medical device approvals in the American healthcare system.
Key responsibilities
Apply research or simulation results to extend biological theory or recommend new research projects.
Develop or implement data analysis algorithms.
Collect data through surveys or experimentation.
Analyze archival data, such as birth, death, and disease records.
Design or maintain databases of biological data.