Welcome to the UNC Department of Biostatistics
Our department is dedicated to advancing the field of biostatistics through innovative research, comprehensive education, and collaborative partnerships. Students in our department have the opportunity to work with world-renowned faculty, engage in cutting-edge research, and develop the skills necessary to tackle complex public health challenges. Our degree programs are designed to provide a strong foundation in statistical theory and methods, while also offering practical experience through internships and collaborative projects. Join us at UNC and become part of a vibrant community committed to improving health outcomes through the power of biostatistics.
To learn more about our degree programs, please visit Degrees and Certificates – UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. Below please find profiles of a few of our former students, details about career opportunities for biostatisticians, and links to initiate our application process.
Our Former Students
Biostatistics students help to advance statistical science and ultimately, by practical application, help to improve human health.
Larry Han, BSPH Alumnus
Larry Han, was one of the 35 Americans awarded the Gates-Cambridge Scholarship to pursue full-time graduate studies at the University of Cambridge in England. He then completed his doctorate in biostatistics at Harvard University and is now an Assistant Professor at Northeastern University.
Dr. Shaina Mitchell, Alumna
“I really like that [the Department of Biostatistics] is in the School of Public Health because we’re in close quarters with professionals from nutrition and epidemiology which makes it very easy to collaborate.” Hear more about why Shaina chose to study at UNC Gillings.
Dr. Briana Stephenson, Alumna
“I chose UNC Gillings for the great reputation of the school. It’s one of the top public health programs in the nation.” Hear more about Briana Joy Kennedy Stephenson’s experience as member of the Gillings School community. Dr. Stephenson completed her postdoctoral research at the department’s Collaborative Studies Coordinating Center, working on the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos with Drs. Jianwen Cai and Daniela Sotres and is now an Assistant Professor at Harvard.
Career Opportunities in Biostatistics
Who hires biostatisticians? Anyone who wants to understand and use data about human health!
Traditionally, biostatisticians are heavily recruited for jobs in academics, government and various industries. With the increased visibility of disciplines like epidemiology and biostatistics during the COVID-19 pandemic, more employers and students are learning of this rewarding and well-compensated career.
In academia, doctoral graduates may hold faculty positions that involve some combination of methodological research, collaboration with scientific investigators and teaching. Students with master’s or doctoral degrees may work as research personnel in academic departments or may be employed by major research hospitals and medical institutes where they work on projects or as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Government agencies involved with health data are large employers of biostatisticians, data scientists and programmers. Some examples include the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Pharmaceutical and medical device companies, software companies and non-profit agencies hire biostatisticians to understand and communicate information about data. Contract Research Organizations (CROs) contract with pharmaceutical or other entities to assist in the phases of clinical or other research. Our graduates often enter the job market well-compensated in roles such as biostatistician, data analyst, statistical programmer, analyst programmer or data scientist.
UNC-CH is situated minutes from the Research Triangle Park, home to many employers for biostatisticians like IQVIA, Rho and SAS. Students can take a Field Observations in Biostatistics (BIOS 691) course to meet key personnel in area organizations and learn about the roles of biostatisticians within the triangle and surrounding area.
Ready to Apply?
Visit our Apply page for more information.
Need More Information?
- Our BSPH Program
- Our Graduate Programs
- Applying to the Gillings School
- Tuition and Fees
- Awards and Funding
- NC Residency Information
Still Have Questions?
For more information, please contact your academic coordinator.
