What You Need to Know About Biostatistician
Biostatistician Job Description Develop and apply biostatistical theory and methods to the study of life sciences.
List of Biostatistician Job Duties
- Prepare statistical data for inclusion in reports to data monitoring committees, federal regulatory agencies, managers, or clients.
- Develop or use mathematical models to track changes in biological phenomena such as the spread of infectious diseases.
- Apply research or simulation results to extend biological theory or recommend new research projects.
- Plan or direct research studies related to life sciences.
- Calculate sample size requirements for clinical studies.
- Design research studies in collaboration with physicians, life scientists, or other professionals.
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What Every Biostatistician Should Know
Below is a list of the skills most Biostatisticians say are important on the job.
Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Types of Biostatistician
- Principal Statistical Scientist
- Bioinformatics Specialist
- Bioinformatician
- Associate Director of Biostatistics
- Research Scientist
Are There Job Opportunities for Biostatisticians?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 37,200 jobs in the United States for Biostatistician. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 33.9% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 12,600 new jobs for Biostatistician by 2026. The BLS estimates 4,400 yearly job openings in this field.

The states with the most job growth for Biostatistician are Utah, Rhode Island, and Nevada. Watch out if you plan on working in Alaska, Maryland, or Arkansas. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Biostatistician Average Salary
The salary for Biostatisticians ranges between about $53,000 and $139,350 a year.

Biostatisticians who work in New Jersey, District of Columbia, or Maryland, make the highest salaries.
How much do Biostatisticians make in each U.S. state?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $61,860 |
Alaska | $87,020 |
Arizona | $80,330 |
Arkansas | $76,630 |
California | $99,860 |
Colorado | $84,380 |
Connecticut | $101,820 |
Delaware | $100,710 |
District of Columbia | $104,310 |
Florida | $81,960 |
Georgia | $92,800 |
Hawaii | $71,040 |
Idaho | $113,780 |
Illinois | $89,040 |
Indiana | $74,870 |
Iowa | $74,430 |
Kansas | $89,250 |
Kentucky | $79,640 |
Louisiana | $76,120 |
Maine | $73,560 |
Maryland | $107,400 |
Massachusetts | $108,670 |
Michigan | $80,920 |
Minnesota | $95,930 |
Mississippi | $65,510 |
Missouri | $71,150 |
Nebraska | $67,080 |
Nevada | $71,210 |
New Hampshire | $75,880 |
New Jersey | $116,090 |
New Mexico | $81,100 |
New York | $95,870 |
North Carolina | $101,010 |
North Dakota | $75,230 |
Ohio | $82,180 |
Oklahoma | $63,120 |
Oregon | $80,920 |
Pennsylvania | $85,180 |
South Carolina | $68,320 |
Tennessee | $74,450 |
Texas | $84,940 |
Utah | $75,000 |
Vermont | $69,750 |
Virginia | $87,700 |
Washington | $100,670 |
West Virginia | $76,070 |
Wisconsin | $82,330 |
What Tools & Technology do Biostatisticians Use?
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Biostatisticians may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Git
- Python
- Microsoft Access
- MySQL
- Word processing software
- SAP
- Data visualization software
- Microsoft Windows
- Spreadsheet software
- Database software
- Structured query language SQL
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Linux
- Extensible markup language XML
How do I Become a Biostatistician?
Individuals working as a Biostatistician have obtained the following education levels:

How Long Does it Take to Become a Biostatistician?

Where Biostatisticians Work

Biostatisticians work in the following industries:

Similar Careers
Career changers with experience as a Biostatistician sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
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More about our data sources and methodologies.
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