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The types of jobs available as a statistician tend to be exclusive positions found in only a few sectors. Still, there are many types of unique jobs available for graduates with academic backgrounds in statistics, mathematics and data science.
Health Care Statistician
Most health care statisticians work for companies that develop innovative health care products and technologies. These could include science-based products related to diagnostics, nutrition, medical devices and generic pharmaceuticals. Health care statistician’s main duties include database activities, protocol input and randomization schedules. They work with project teams to identify and decide on appropriate study designs, statistical methodologies and comprehensive protocol reviews. They are responsible for randomization schedules, which includes sample sizes and power calculations, as well as quality assurance activities that ensure that statistical data is accurate and untainted. Health care statisticians are responsible for the implementation of protocol methodology, statistical analysis plans and alternative analysis strategies when changes are needed. They ensure that software programs are properly used and that data is efficiently recorded and well-documented.
Data Scientist Consultant
A data scientist consultant usually works for private firms that outsource to temporary corporate projects. They are responsible for the selection of statistical methods, which may require them to explain their choices to management in non-technical terms. They are responsible for the accuracy of statistical tables, data listings and report content. They must identify and corrects interpretation flaws, inference inconsistency and strategy vulnerabilities. A data scientist consultant will work collaboratively with management to develop efficient experiment designs, quality protocols and scheduled reports on established timelines. These statisticians must regularly provide accurate and timely answers to questions from clients by citing scientific insight. They must maintain harmonious client relationships while also developing strategies for expanding their client base. These consultants must be good at effectively presenting statistical concepts and arguments to management and corporate data scientists.
Project Coordinator
Not all statisticians are supervisors or technical experts. Some statisticians start out their careers as project coordinators who monitor and track multiple projects. They ensure that ensure that statistical support meets regulatory needs and internal standards. They must effectively interact with project leaders, regulatory agents and technical staff. They may be responsible for the accuracy and appropriateness of statistical input that is provided for regulatory submissions, discovery meetings and development decisions. This means they must contribute to protocol design, statistical methodology and results interpretation activities. Project coordinators may assist project managers and research leaders with ensuring compliance with applicable corporate procedures and regulatory policies. They ensure the general accuracy of daily reports and consistency between daily summary tables. Project coordinators should be able to identify and correct common flaws in interpretation methods, results and presentation. They may independently pursue basic analyses of data based on data indications or project recommendations.
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An applied research statistician will apply a variety of data collection, analysis and interpretation methods on different projects, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They will use theory-based approaches to data evaluation and research. A research analyst may focus on quality and improvement initiatives to contribute to the development of innovative organizational services and accurate workforce solutions.