PhD Biostatistics

Program Overview

The PhD in Biostatistics at the University at Albany prepares students for careers in academic research and leadership positions in health-related data analysis. The program focuses on designing studies, modeling, and interpreting large-scale biological data to address public health issues. Graduates contribute to mitigating causes and consequences of various health problems by statistically analyzing biomedical and health data. The program emphasizes real-world applications, research collaboration, and critical thinking development.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

• The PhD in Biostatistics prepares you for careers in academic research and leadership positions in health-related data analysis.
• The program focuses on designing studies, modeling, and interpreting large-scale biological data to address public health issues.
• Graduates contribute to mitigating causes and consequences of various health problems by statistically analyzing biomedical and health data.

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with advanced statistical expertise to analyze large-scale biological data.
• Develop strong research and analytical skills for tackling public health challenges.
• Prepare graduates for academic and leadership roles in the field of biostatistics.

Program Description:

• The PhD program requires 60 credits, including coursework and a dissertation.
• Students follow the curriculum for the master's program in Biostatistics for the first two years.
• Specialization in an area of interest is achieved through remaining coursework advised by the faculty advisor.
• The final stage involves designing a biostatistical study and reporting findings in a publishable format.

Outline:

Program Content:

• Biostatistics principles, methods, and applications
• Design and analysis of observational and experimental studies
• Statistical modeling of public health data
• Statistical computing and data management
• Public health research methods
• Ethics in public health research

Structure:

• The program consists of coursework and a dissertation.
• Coursework includes core and elective courses in biostatistics, public health, and research methods.
• Students can choose elective courses to specialize in a specific area of interest.

Modules:

• Biostatistics I & II: Foundational principles of probability, statistical inference, and regression analysis.
• Survival Analysis: Analyzes data related to time-to-event outcomes, such as disease-free survival.
• Longitudinal Data Analysis: Techniques for analyzing repeated measurements over time.
• Categorical Data Analysis: Models and methods for analyzing data with categorical outcomes.
• Bayesian Statistics: An alternative approach to frequentist statistics using Bayesian inference.
• Clinical Trials Methodology: Design, analysis, and ethical considerations of clinical trials.
• Public Health Data Analysis: Techniques for analyzing large datasets related to public health issues.
• Epidemiology: Principles and methods for studying the distribution and causes of disease in populations.
• Research Methods: Quantitative and qualitative research methods used in public health research.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework assessments include exams, assignments, presentations, and participation.
• The dissertation is assessed based on its originality, research quality, and defense presentation.

Assessment Criteria:

• Coursework: Knowledge and understanding of concepts, ability to apply statistical methods, and critical analysis of research findings.
• Dissertation: Originality of research question, methodological rigor, statistical analysis and interpretation, and clarity of presentation.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures, interactive seminars, workshops, independent research, and supervised dissertation project.

Faculty:

• Active researchers with expertise in biostatistics, public health, and various areas of specialization.

Unique Approach:

• Emphasis on real-world applications of biostatistics to public health problems.
• Opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects.
• Strong focus on developing research skills and critical thinking.

Careers:

Career Paths:

• Academic positions in statistics and biostatistics departments
• Leadership roles in research institutions and public health organizations
• Statistical analysis positions in government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and non-profit organizations

Career Opportunities:

• Universities: Assistant professor, associate professor, professor, research scientist.
• Government agencies: Research statistician, epidemiologist, data scientist.
• Pharmaceutical companies: Biostatistician, clinical trial statistician.
• Non-profit organizations: Research director, data analyst, program evaluator.

Career Outcomes:

• Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in various settings, including academia, government, industry, and non-profit organizations.

Other:

Research Opportunities:

• Collaborate with faculty on research projects related to vector-borne diseases, HIV, STDs, hospital admissions, vital records, toxicology, outbreak investigations, chronic diseases, nutrition, and environmental and occupational epidemiology.
• Access research resources through affiliations with the Wadsworth Center and the University's Cancer Research Center, Prevention Research Center, and other research centers.

International Students:

• F-1 visa holders can apply for up to 12 months of post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT).
• STEM OPT extension available, allowing up to 36 months of OPT for qualified graduates.