Biostatistics opportunities grow in N.C. and nationwide, with UNC Gillings School's Dr. Joseph Ibrahim ensuring students are well-prepared for diverse sectors.
Opportunity in biostatistics is booming in North Carolina and across the nation. Expertise in the analysis of data related to biology and health sciences supports a broad range of activities, from environmental health research and clinical trials of cancer treatments to analysis for litigation, and biostatistics degree holders work in the nonprofit, government and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as at tech giants like Google and Microsoft.
Joseph Ibrahim, PhD, Alumni Distinguished Professor of biostatistics, recognizes the importance of making sure UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health students are well-equipped and marketable so they can make a greater impact in the community. He brings this philosophy into his classroom and his approach to mentorship.
“The name of the game is impact,” Ibrahim said. “What attracts students to biostatistics is not only the connections of clinical trials with applied areas — as well as academic areas — but the potential impact that they can have in the field.”
Pushing students further
UNC Gillings’ Department of Biostatistics is a world leader in statistical research and practice for the purposes of improving public health, progressing biostatistical education and advancing the profession. Ibrahim is determined to support every student in their journey to become successful leaders.
Real-world application is one way Carolina biostatistics students gain the experience needed to become notable in the field. Students get hands-on experience by participating in the methodological and collaborative research conducted by faculty. Aside from being able to work with local entities on research projects that are shaping the future of biostatistics, as the director of graduate studies in the Department of Biostatistics, Ibrahim is in a unique position to help students achieve their goals.
“I love giving advice to students on the best courses to take, a trajectory for finishing on time or working in a particular research area,” said Ibrahim.
Working as a graduate research assistant under Ibrahim, Xinxin Chen, who is seeking a Doctor of Philosophy in biostatistics, knows biostatistics is an incredible force in the scientific community and believes Ibrahim is preparing her for a successful future in the industry.
“What I find interesting in the biostatistics field is the ability to apply statistical knowledge to tackle real-world challenges and make a direct impact on health care and medicine,” Chen explained. “Professor Ibrahim’s mentorship has played a crucial role in shaping my interest in Bayesian statistics and preparing me with a solid background in statistical theory.”
Chen emphasized the tremendous impact Ibrahim has made on her education and even shared that his research was one of the reasons why she chose the biostatistics program at Carolina.
“In the courses I have taken with him, he explained the complex statistical concepts and methods clearly and presented a bigger picture of the topic, as well as how it could be applied to research,” Chen said. “He has also been very supportive and responsive during my work as a graduate research assistant, providing insightful suggestions and resources for solving problems encountered in our research projects.”
Through her work with him, Chen has also acquired a deeper understanding of the field and improved her research and writing skills, which she said will be beneficial for her future career.
For over three decades, with 20 years at UNC-Chapel Hill, Ibrahim’s commitment and rigorous training have led students to esteemed roles in global pharma and biotech firms like Merck, Amgen, and Pfizer. Many have also advanced in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, National Institutes of Health, and tech giants including Apple.
Read full article at go.unc.edu/ibrahim-beyond
