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Department of Biostatistics

Biostatistics: In Conversation with the Yale School of Public Health Department Chair

Discover how the Yale School of Public Health Biostatistics department tackles pressing challenges in biology, medicine and public health. Led by Chair Shuangge Steven Ma, PhD, the department develops innovative methodologies that drive impactful research. With a focus on data, biostatistics integrates mathematics, statistics, computer science and health informatics. From COVID-19 modeling to improving clinical study designs to appropriately incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning tools into health research, our biostatisticians make significant contributions to understanding and treating complex diseases.

Research and Study

The Yale School of Public Health Biostatistics department develops quantitative methodologies and tools for rigorous scientific research to solve the world’s most challenging problems in biology, medicine and public health. Our view of biostatistics encompasses all aspects of the scientific method, from study design and data collection to computation, statistical analysis and interpretation and communication of findings.

Our faculty are leaders in the research, development and application of statistical methods in areas across the field of biostatistics and health data science. You can explore specific Areas of Interest below or see specific research interests at the Faculty page.

You can also explore the School’s website for more information about our Academics and Graduate Programs within Biostatistics and other departments.

Division of Health Informatics

The Division of Health Informatics is invested in training and research around issues surrounding big data acquisition and its management in health care as well as biomedical and public health research. The science of health informatics drives innovation-defining future approaches to information and knowledge management in biomedical research, clinical care and public health. Our department leads in these areas through interdisciplinary research and the health informatics concentration in the department’s Master’s degree program.

Why Choose YSPH Biostatistics?

  • Cutting-Edge Research: Engage in advanced research at the intersection of statistics, biomedicine, computer science and epidemiology, utilizing innovative technologies like AI to tackle pressing public health challenges.
  • Impactful Learning: Learn from internationally recognized faculty in and out of the classroom. Beyond coursework, you will be able to participate in research centers and initiatives within the department and YSPH. For example, students and faculty in the Public Health Modeling Unit provided critical data and analysis during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Diverse Academic and Career Paths: Our nationally recognized graduate programs equip you with versatile skills to address contemporary issues in data science and public health. Multiple degrees and pathways allow you to tailor your education to meet your goals. Incoming students select among the MPH, MS in Biostatistics (Standard, Implementation and Prevention Science Methods, or Data Science Pathway), MS in Health Informatics, or PhD in Biostatistics (Standard or Implementation and Prevention Science Methods Pathway)
  • Collaborative Environment: Benefit from extensive partnerships with other Yale schools and departments, leading pharmaceutical companies and government agencies, enhancing your educational experience and professional network.