Biostatisticians
Biostatisticians apply statistical theory and methods to research in life sciences, including medicine, genetics, and public health. They work in pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, hospitals, universities, and government agencies. Their role involves designing studies, analyzing biological data, and interpreting results to advance scientific understanding and inform health decisions.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against biostatisticians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A biostatistician might spend time designing a clinical trial protocol, meeting with research collaborators to understand study objectives, analyzing datasets using statistical software, creating data visualizations, and writing reports on findings. Work includes reviewing previous studies, checking data quality, running statistical tests, and documenting methodology. Much of the week involves collaborative problem-solving and communicating results to non-statistician colleagues.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICS. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be investigative and drawn to systematic problem-solving, enjoying the process of uncovering patterns in complex data. You prefer organized, rule-based work and like following established protocols and standards. This role suits people who find satisfaction in precision and accuracy while helping advance scientific knowledge.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $108,160 | $140,670 | $166,230 | 550 |
| New York | $97,820 | $136,020 | $174,350 | 1,220 |
| California | $100,210 | $135,960 | $174,340 | 2,480 |
| Maryland | $111,530 | $132,620 | $156,730 | 2,730 |
| Illinois | $95,490 | $119,760 | $141,360 | 480 |
| New Jersey | $97,340 | $118,280 | $163,020 | 880 |
| North Carolina | $92,330 | $115,690 | $147,490 | 1,200 |
| Georgia | $92,180 | $115,150 | $144,870 | 460 |
| Virginia | $87,140 | $114,920 | $149,230 | 720 |
| Kentucky | $90,020 | $112,520 | $138,480 | 80 |
| Kansas | $99,300 | $111,780 | $125,260 | 80 |
| Colorado | $85,550 | $109,660 | $136,940 | 780 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Associate in the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS) — Casualty Actuarial Society
- Fellow in the Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS) — Casualty Actuarial Society
- Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM) — Society for Clinical Data Management
- IBM Cloud Pak for Data System V1.x Administrator Specialty — IBM Corporation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against biostatisticians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 15-2041.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.