Epidemiology Careers.

Over the past decade, increased concerns about emerging infections, toxic environmental hazards, and global health disparities have led to an increased recognition of the importance of the field of epidemiology. Epidemiologists determine the causes and distribution of disease and disability.

Epidemiologic studies are expanding our understanding of the spectrum of public health risks and the effectiveness of public health interventions. A degree in epidemiology provides students with knowledge required for many positions. Epidemiologists do fieldwork to determine what
causes disease or injury, what the risks are, who is at risk, and how to prevent further incidences.
They understand the demographic and social trends upon disease and injury. The initial
discovery and containment of an outbreak often comes from epidemiologists

Career Pathways for Epidemiology & Biostatistics Candidates

Common Job Titles

  • Public Health Officer
  • Health Data Analyst/Data Analyst
  • Epidemiologist or Associate Epidemiologist
  • Surveillance Epidemiologist
  • Research Analyst
  • Project Manager
  • Clinical Research Associate/Analyst
  • Clinical Research Coordinator/Specialist
  • Biostatistician Epidemiologist
  • Field Epidemiologist
  • IRB Specialist

Where Can These Positions be Found

  • Government (local, state, federal)
  • Hospitals
  • Community Health Centers
  • Consulting Firms
  • NGO’s
  • Pharmaceutical/Biotech Companies
  • Clinical Research Organizations (CRO’s)
  • Academic Research Organizations (ARC’s)
  • Insurance Companies

Core Competencies And Skills Needed

  • Tendency to think logically and analytically
  • Interest in solving challenging research problems
  • Ability to work both individually and collaboratively
  • Desire to continue learning about new topics and new techniques
  • Strong background in math and statistics
  • Knowledge of how to use statistics programs and databases
  • Interest/experience analyzing large data sets
  • Tools: SAS, R, Excel

Educational And Training Resources

Salary

Salaries for Epidemiology focused positions are based on many factors including industry, experience, and location. View our Graduate Employment Data – salary information is housed under “Epidemiology & Biostatistics”

Other resources to help you better understand salary ranges for Epidemiology roles:

Associations and Organizations

Sample Resumes and Cover Letters

  • Follow the EpiBio & Research resume template to help craft your Epidemiology focused resume.
  • For Data focused resumes, make sure to create a well detailed technical skills section

Industry Specific Job Board

Specific Considerations for Applications within the Government Field​

  • Be sure to submit within the first 15 days
  • If considering the Boston Public health Commission, you must be a Boston resident to be
    considered