| Job Category |  | Computer & Mathematical |
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| Job Description | | Statistics is the scientific application of mathematical principles to the collection, analysis, and presentation of numerical data. Biostatisticians contribute to scientific inquiry by applying their mathematical knowledge to the design of surveys and experiments; collection, processing, and analysis of data; and interpretation of the results. Many applications cannot occur without the use of statistical techniques, such as designing experiments to gain Federal approval of a newly manufactured drug.
One technique that is especially useful to statisticians is sampling -- obtaining information about a population of people or group of things by surveying a small portion of the total. Statisticians decide where and how to gather the data, determine the type and size of the sample group, and develop the survey questionnaire or reporting form. They also prepare instructions for workers who will collect and tabulate the data. Statisticians analyze, interpret, and summarize the data using computer software.
In business and industry, biostatisticians play an important role in quality control and product development and improvement. Working for a pharmaceutical company, statisticians might develop and evaluate the results of clinical trials to determine the safety and effectiveness of new medications.
Numerous statisticians are employed by nearly every government agency. For example, they may work for scientific, environmental, and agricultural agencies and may help to determine the amount of pesticides in drinking water, the number of endangered species living in a particular area, or the number of people afflicted with a particular disease. |
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| Working Conditions | | Biostatisticians usually work regular hours in comfortable offices. Some statisticians travel to provide advice on research projects, supervise and set up surveys, or gather statistical data. Some may have duties that vary widely, such as designing experiments or performing fieldwork in various communities. Statisticians who work in academia generally have a mix of teaching and research responsibilities. |
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| Salary Range | | Median annual wage-and-salary earnings of statisticians were $65,720 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $48,480 and $87,850. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,010, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $108,630.
The average annual salary for statisticians in the Federal Government was $85,690 in 2007, while mathematical statisticians averaged $96,121. |
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