Biostatistician II

School of Medicine

Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,600 faculty physicians and researchers, nearly 2,000 students, and more than 6,200 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, and Duke University Health System comprise Duke Health, a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Health Integrated Practice, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home Care and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.

Occupational Summary

The laboratory of Svati H. Shah is seeking a biostatistician or bioinformatician to be part of a team of computational scientists and trainees leveraging clinical and cutting-edge molecular technologies to identify novel mechanisms and biomarkers of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The lab is situated within the Duke Molecular Physiology Institute which affords access to multi-disciplinary science collaborations and lectures.

Work Performed

With appropriate guidance, formats data for analysis on cardiovascular projects, maintains database in conjunction with other members of the team, and prepares statistical analysis plans. Independently generates descriptive and basic test statistics, analysis of basic data requests and generates statistical modeling results. Learns new statistical methods as needed, and applies these new skills to future projects 

Documents analyses, creates summaries, and presents results in written and verbal form to requestors. Able to work on any phase of a manuscript project, from initial meeting with an investigator to final review of a manuscript prior to submission for publication, with guidance. Builds documentation and organizational skills to effectively return to a project after long intervals during which no progress was made by other members of the project team. Contributes meaningfully to discussions of analyses and identifies next steps for analyses.

Designs analysis data set specifications through writing own code using appropriate language (e.g. R, SAS etc.), find errors, correct, and validates output and results. Performs complex programming such as data transposition and macros.

Participates in most statistical aspects of a project, with consultation or assistance when needed. Drafts statistical sections for manuscripts and grants with guidance of senior or faculty statistician.  Provides input regarding data collection tools and data correction criteria and procedures.

Understands study data and the intricacies of the process through which it is being collected. Handles and secures highly confidential and sensitive analyses and documentation. Collaborates closely with investigators to ensure that project results and conclusions are presented accurately and without bias.

Leads or participates actively in the statistical team responsible for designing and validating analysis data sets, programs, and statistical output products (tables, listings, figures). Adheres to standard operating procedures (SOPs) of the functional department as they apply to documentation and validation of clinical research statistics. Understands guidelines from the NIH, or other sponsoring agency as they apply statistics and programming expectations for each project.

Collaborates effectively with a variety of types of individuals including programmers, statisticians (both junior and senior), trainees (students, postdoctoral and clinical fellows) and wet lab scientists.   Develops leadership and communication skills and shares them with others. 

Manages project responsibilities with decreasing levels of supervision or regular support and takes initiative to complete project-specific responsibilities with minimal supervision.   Demonstrates progress in ability to multi-task. 

Perform other related duties and special projects as requested.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Preferred Skills

Prior contribution to analysis of research projects, and in addition to working knowledge of SAS, a working knowledge of R, LINUX/UNIX preferred.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

Work requires a minimum of a Master's degree in(bio)statistics or related field and no relevant experience, or a bachelors degree in (bio) statistics or related field and 2 years relevant experience, or an equivalent combination or relevant education and/or work experience.

Experience

OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE Prior contribution to analysis of research projects, a working knowledge of SAS, and solid command of the English language is required.

Job Code: 00002681 BIOSTATISTICIAN II
Job Level: 74

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