Any completed survey or research that is in progress must involve some data whose meaning is to be determined. The criterion behind the collection of the data as well as its representation and interpretation employs a good deal of statistics: a science that employs mathematical concepts and principles in data collection and processing. However, “statisticians, not only need mathematical and statistical knowledge, but also modern computing skills as well as the ability to work, listen and communicate with other people” (Milan, and Regan 269). There are several opportunities for statisticians. For example, they can apply the knowledge of statistical methods to fields, such as science and technology, health and medicine, business and industry, sports and education, law and justice. Notwithstanding, many economic, social, political, and military decisions are reached through statistical techniques. Despite these opportunities, the paper explores a career in biostatistics, which uses probability and statistical procedures to analyze the phenomena in the science of life.
The significance of biostatistics as a career in statistics cannot be overemphasized. It allows one to preserve the scientific integrity of clinical research and environment studies such as determining the number of endangered species in a particular area and the number of people suffering from a certain disease. The concept of biostatistics is also used in evaluating genetic malfunctions and studying the population of a certain species. “The location of plants and animals and the spread of pollution from its sources due to human activities often contain complex and incomplete data whose uncertainty and meaning” can come out based on the efforts of biostatisticians (Steve, and Jina 278). In addition, one can combine his or her interests with almost any other field in law, science, technology, and business.
Biostatisticians have a variety of opportunities in the field of public health, medicine, genetics, and ecology among others. For instance, one can secure employment opportunities from pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical service companies. According to the U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual salary for biostatisticians is about one hundred thousand US dollars. However, the amount can vary based on the nature of the work. With the current change in climate, biostatisticians are highly required to research the agricultural sectors. Because biostatisticians secure jobs in many sectors, they often have different professional designations. For instance, as Milan and Regan point out, “a statistician in public health and medicine may hold titles for biostatistician or biometrician making statisticians are generalists and specialists” (280).
Although it is possible to enter a career in statistics as a school leaver and work well after a thorough training, good qualifications are paramount for any biostatistician who wishes to rank high in terms of job position. They require fundamental knowledge in mathematics and English for them to argue and write good reports that are convincing. Since biostatistics is a professional course, graduates and post-graduates in the field are often preferred. Therefore, having a better chance to work as a biostatistician, requires at least a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or statistics. However, more advanced research requires at least a master’s degree and a Ph.D. In addition, “many years of experience in the statistical workplaces one high in terms of the chances of qualifying for any statistical job” (Stern, and Wilson 500).
Generally, the employment of graduate biostatisticians is available in both the private and public sectors. Individuals holding B. Sc and M. Sc degrees in biostatistics are highly sought by employers. For example, medical and pharmaceutical industries recruit and provide sponsorship for advancement to a higher level. “…Ph. D holders in biostatistics mostly pursue a career in banks and financial institutions as well as university teaching and research” (Steve, and Jina 197). The demands for biostatisticians continue to increase making many people aspire for the same, as salaries and opportunities for advancement are very competitive.
Works Cited
Milan, Pfannkuch, and Regan, Horton. Towards more accessible conceptions of Statistical inference. Journal of Statistics in Society 174.2 (2011): 268-290.
Stern, Hal, and Wilson, Alyson. Statistical applications, methods in economic and health Sciences and their contributions to statistical advancement. Journal of the American Statistical Association 106.494 (1989): 387-773.
Steve, Snapinn, and Jina, Lee. Application of biostatisticians in biopharmaceutical Industries. Statistics in Biopharmaceutical Research 3.2 (2002): 107-424.