Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Biostatistician applies statistical methods to the analysis of biological data, playing a pivotal role in medical research, public health, and pharmaceutical development. They design studies, analyze data, and interpret results to improve health and understand medical phenomena.
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 31.6% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 2 000
Direct AI exposure: 60% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 88% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Mathematicians, Statisticians and Actuaries. According to the wage tables, average income is $106K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $65K per year | $87K per year | $106K per year | $140K per year | $161K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $41K above the national average. | ||||
Biostatisticians work in diverse settings, including universities, research institutions, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare organizations. Their environment is typically an office or laboratory setting, with regular hours but potential for extended periods of focused data analysis or research during critical projects.
Biostatisticians are essential in bridging the gap between statistics and the biological sciences. They apply their knowledge of mathematics and statistics to real-world biological and health-related problems. Their work involves not only the application of standard statistical techniques but also the development of new methods tailored to the unique challenges of biological data.
Collaboration is a key part of a biostatistician's role. They often work with scientists and researchers from different disciplines, contributing to a diverse range of projects, from medical research to public health policy. This interdisciplinary aspect requires not only statistical expertise but also a broad understanding of biology and medicine.
The role demands a high level of precision and attention to detail, as the results of their analyses can have significant implications in health and medicine. It also requires strong communication skills to effectively convey complex statistical concepts to non-statisticians and to collaborate effectively on research teams.
Most biostatisticians hold a master's degree in biostatistics, statistics, or a related field, which usually requires 2-3 years of postgraduate study. A doctoral degree may be necessary for higher-level research positions or academia.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
