Overview
The Department of Biostatistics and Data Science at the USF College of Public Health provides advanced training and research in biostatistics, data science, and public health. Our faculty members take great pride in preparing students to succeed as methodologists and data scientists in academia, government, industry, and healthcare. Biostatistics and data science drive innovation in health research by integrating statistical techniques, machine learning, and AI to solve complex challenges in medicine, biology, and public health. Our experts play a critical role in designing studies and analyzing data for clinical trials, disease risk assessment, environmental safety, and healthcare advancements.
As Florida's first Biostatistics PhD program, we excel in education and research, with expertise in Bayesian methods, joint modeling, longitudinal data analysis, clinical trials, data privacy and sharing, biomarker validation, causal inference, and causal mediation analysis. Join us in shaping the future of biostatistics and data science in public health.
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Pioneers in Florida
We are home to the first Biostatistics PhD program in Florida, with a legacy of excellence spanning over 20 years.
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Leaders in Research
Our faculty drive innovation in Bayesian methods, longitudinal data analysis, clinical trials, data privacy, and more.
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Impactful Alumni
Our alumni have secured positions at renowned biopharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, and universities.
Why Choose COPH Biostatistics and Data Science?
- Innovative Research Opportunities: Join a dynamic department at the forefront of biostatistics and data science. Our faculty and students collaborate on groundbreaking projects that integrate advanced statistical techniques, machine learning, and AI. With a strong focus on real-world applications, our research drives progress in clinical trials, longitudinal data analysis, data privacy, biomarker validation, causal inference, and causal mediation analysis. The Study Design and Data Analysis (SDDA) core supports this work by providing expert guidance in research planning, data analysis, and data management to enhance the quality, rigor, and impact of scientific studies.
- Hands-On Learning & Collaboration: Learn from renowned faculty who are leaders in their fields and gain valuable hands-on experience through internships, research initiatives, and data-driven projects. Our strong partnerships with healthcare organizations, research centers and government agencies offer students real-world exposure, mentorship, and career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
- Tailored Educational Pathways: Pursue a graduate program that aligns with your career aspirations, whether it’s the MPH in Applied Biostatistics or PhD in Biostatistics. Each program provides a strong foundation in analytical and computational techniques, preparing graduates for impactful careers in academia, healthcare, government, industry, and healthcare.
- Community & Professional Growth: Get involved in our department-affiliated student organization, the Epidemiology and Biostatistics Students Association (EBSA). This group provide opportunities for students to grow academically and professionally through a variety of activities and learning experiences with professors, current students, alumni, and professional organizations.
"I earned my PhD in Biostatistics from USF in 2022, where I received comprehensive training in biostatistical methods and hands-on experience in clinical trials through the Study Design & Data Analysis core. I collaborated with Dr. Henian Chen on several research projects, resulting in more than 20 peer-reviewed publications. This experience prepared me well for my current role as Senior Manager of Biostatistics at Bristol Myers Squibb." – Yuanyuan Lu, PhD Alumni

Alumna Delaenam Akahoho's path to public health
Delaenam Akahoho, a proud double Bull alumna of USF’s College of Public Health (COPH), has charted a path from her childhood. Growing up in Okeechobee, Fla., Akahoho’s experiences with community and public health challenges have shaped her commitment to improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Alumna Delaenam Akahoho's path to public health

COPH launches new departments to advance education and research
Following months of planning and extensive faculty collaboration, the COPH received unanimous approval from the USF Faculty Senate to reorganize and reestablish its academic departments. This significant achievement marks a new chapter in the college’s commitment to excellence in public health education, research and practice.
COPH launches new departments to advance education and research

A triple Bull’s path to global public health leadership
Originally from Naples, Fla., Adriana Campos is the daughter of Ecuadorian immigrant parents and a triple Bull, earning all of her degrees from the USF College of Public Health (COPH).