Great Expectations: Training Future Biostatisticians for Careers in Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research

• Activity Number: 482
• Type: Invited
• Date/Time: Wednesday, August 6, 2014 : 10:30 AM to 12:20 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Teaching of Statistics in the Health Sciences
• Author(s): Michelle Dunn*+ and Melissa D. Begg*+ and Tor D. Tosteson*+ and Brian Scott Caffo*+ and Lisa Sullivan*+
• Companies: National Cancer Institute and Columbia University and Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth and Johns Hopkins University and Boston University School of Public Health
• Keywords: Biostatistics training ; Interdisciplinary Careers ; Independent investigators ; Curriculum Reform ; "Big Data"

Abstract

Increasingly, successful careers in academic and other research environments require that statisticians go beyond consulting to become full-fledged collaborators and independent interdisciplinary researchers. Notable examples of fields where this has already occurred include genomics, health policy, and "Big Data." Fulfilling these new expectations requires a rethinking of the priorities for training programs in statistics and biostatistics. This panel discussion will consider recent initiatives and practical training at all levels. Specific issues covered will include evolving career tracks, reforming the curriculum in biostatistics, and the impact on statistical research priorities. Consideration will be given to the current trends in research funding paradigms and educational technology as they may affect future career trajectories and training needs.