Jeffrey Larson Keller and Daniel J. Sargent

The Mayo Clinic Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics (BSI) is home to more than 175 statisticians—approximately 30 with a PhD, 55 at the MS level, and 90 at the BS level. Our primary function is to collaborate with and provide services to Mayo Clinic investigators. To do this, biostatisticians apply, develop, and teach statistical principles related to study design and conduct and analyze and interpret the results of medical research.

BSI recruits top statisticians at all levels. Expectations for these positions focus on sound statistical knowledge, computer programming, and experience with software packages for data management and statistical analysis. In addition, excellent communication skills, both oral and written, are required.

There is intense competition for talented people. What does it take to be one of the top candidates? We look for students with hands-on experience working with real data and important problems in the real world. We look for students who have gained experience through previous work, extracurricular activities, volunteering, and internships, in addition to the experience gained through their program of study. Candidates are evaluated and ranked based on academic and work history as summarized in their CV/résumé and letters of recommendation. They are further evaluated through a carefully constructed interview process. We expect candidates to be engaged and able to describe to us in detail their education and experience.

About the Authors
Jeffrey Larson Keller has worked at Mayo Clinic for more than 20 years and is currently manager of research operations in the Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics. He has been involved in the recruitment and placement of hundreds of statisticians.

Daniel J. Sargent, professor of biostatistics and oncology at Mayo Clinic, is the group statistician for the Cancer and Leukemia Group B and director of Cancer Center Statistics at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Most of our top candidates are based in university programs that have a strong blend of theory and applications. With the proliferation of statistical software and the numbers of people receiving basic statistical training, biostatisticians are no longer just number crunchers; they must play key strategic roles as members and leaders on research teams.

We look for people who can understand customer needs and communicate in the customers’ language. Has the student had to write project reports and present those reports to a client audience? Clear written and oral communication, as judged from the perspective of the audience, are critical skills. As statisticians, it is important that we can describe what we have done and what it means in understandable terms.

Our ability to communicate effectively is crucial. That ability includes listening, talking, writing, and reading. In biomedical research, we are often working with colleagues who have varying backgrounds and quite possibly little knowledge of statistics, including physicians, scientists, residents, fellows, engineers, programmers, data managers, and project managers.

It is not enough for us to be able to design studies and analyze data. We must summarize the information in the language of our collaborators and clients. They are looking to us to turn data into information. We must convey statistical thinking to people who may not be interested in statistical methods, only the appropriate conclusions that may be drawn from their data. Communication skills are foundational in successful consulting work. How are you developing your communication skills?

Biostatisticians typically manage many projects at a time, so the ability to manage oneself when setting priorities, delegating, and meeting deadlines is critical. The ability to follow through on commitments stems from the ability to know what to say yes to, how to negotiate, and when to say no.

Students have had many opportunities to practice meeting deadlines and managing their time. We ask specific questions about experience in this regard, and the successful applicant will provide a response other than “I worked around the clock for an extended period of time.” We want people who can manage their commitments in a fashion that sustains their energy over time.