Jeffrey R. Wilson

Professor of Statistics and Biostatistics, Arizona State University

“I was born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, an environment rich in cultural diversity and resilience,” Jeffrey R. Wilson said. “Growing up in the Caribbean, I developed a deep appreciation for the ways communities came together, particularly during times of adversity.” This background instilled in Wilson a profound curiosity about the social and economic structures that shape individual lives and communities, a curiosity that eventually drew him to the statistics field.

Wilson’s journey into statistics and data science began at the University of the West Indies, where he completed his undergraduate studies in mathematics and economics. “I was captivated by the power of numbers to tell complex, meaningful stories about people, communities, and systems,” he said. This fascination led him to pursue graduate studies in statistics at Iowa State University, where he immersed himself in statistical methodologies and became particularly interested in the role of binary data in informing decision-making, improving health care, and addressing societal inequalities. Over the years, he has applied his commitment to statistics across diverse fields—including public health, sports, and business—always aiming to bridge the gap between data and practical impact.

“In addition to my research, I am proud to have authored several textbooks that have become essential resources for practitioners and students alike,” Wilson said. These include Modeling Correlated Binary Responses and Statistical Analytics for Health Data Science with SAS and R, used in academic and professional settings for their practical approach to statistical methods. These texts reflect Wilson’s commitment to making theoretical models accessible for applied practices, particularly in health-related fields.

Wilson’s research has centered on developing statistical models for longitudinal data and correlated binary outcomes, with a particular focus on health data applications. Supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, and US Department of Agriculture, his work has led to more than 85 journal articles covering topics from Alzheimer’s disease studies to public health policy analysis.

Currently a professor of statistics and biostatistics at Arizona State University, Wilson holds leadership roles as associate dean for research and associate dean for inclusive excellence. His role in inclusive excellence aligns closely with his work on the LIFT Initiative, which emphasizes mentoring and developing underrepresented talent across the academic landscape. “Through LIFT, I mentor students from diverse backgrounds, guiding them in statistical methodologies, research approaches, and professional growth with the goal of fostering a more inclusive academic community,” he said.

One of Wilson’s proudest moments came in 2024 when he received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Faculty Service-Leadership Award, recognizing his contributions to research and inclusive excellence. “This honor resonated deeply, symbolizing my commitment to both academic achievement and fostering equity within my institution and beyond,” he said. The award reaffirmed his belief that statistical insights can and should be used to promote social justice and inform policy.