Career Guide for Biostatistics Studies

Biostatistics, in simple terms, is the application of statistics to a wide range of topics in biology. Often called as biometry or biometrics, it deals with the application of statistical methods and techniques for the purpose of data collection, data management and data analysis related to living organisms and biological systems. The role of a Biostatistician is to identifying and assess the risk factors that lead to the development of a disease . Research problems include the study of factors affecting heart and lung disease, testing new drugs to combat AIDS, assessing indoor air quality in schools, working with various cancer studies, evaluating dental health and dental procedures, evaluating psychiatric symptoms of drug and alcohol use, transplanting organs and bone marrow and studying inner ear infection. They also analyze clinical trails of new medicines before they are dispensed into the market.

Eligibilty & Courses:

Most of the universities offer education in Biostatistics at the Post Graduate level. These research based programmes are usually of 3 years duration. Generally, the required qualification for such courses is an Undergraduate programme in any of the related streams concerning Biostatistics, for example, a B.Sc statistics or B.Sc Mathematics with Statistics. Students are selected through an entrance examination. Besides, most institutes conduct their own tests followed by a personal interview.

Career prospects:

In recent years biostatistics has become one of the most stimulating areas of applied statistics. Biostatisticians with advanced degrees can look forward to excellent career opportunities in government, industry, and academia. Graduates have found careers involving teaching, research, and consulting in such fields as medicine, public health, life sciences, survey research, and computer science. There has always been a strong demand for well-trained biostatisticians who find employment well suited to their particular interests.

Remuneration:

A fresher may receive a pay package that may range from Rs.7000 to Rs.12000 per month depending on the type of job and the organization one works for. Statisticians with experience can draw anywhere between Rs.10,000 to Rs.40,000 per month