Head of Biostatistics and Statistical Programming, Alumis
Ruixiao Lu was born and grew up in China. At a young age, she developed a deep interest in numbers and how data can help people learn and understand and solve real-world problems. Her curiosity about using data to make a difference has guided her career, especially in personalized health care, where she has spent nearly 20 years. From genomics and diagnostics to clinical trials for drug development and regulatory sciences, she has used data and developed tools that push the boundaries of clinical development and real-world evidence to work toward solutions that improve patient outcomes.
Lu is most proud of her time spent at Genomic Health and on the I-SPY platform trials when she worked for Quantum Leap Healthcare. In both positions, she worked with leaders in the field and contributed to the development of novel diagnostics tools and therapies for personalized health care. Some of them turned into actual products and are still being used by patients today. “These experiences really showed me how statistical methods can have a direct and positive impact on people’s lives,” Lu said.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Lu’s career has been her involvement with nonprofit organizations such as the ASA, Bay Area Biotech-Pharma Statistics Workshop, and DahShu. She joined the ASA nearly 20 years ago, and it quickly became more than just a professional organization for her. “It’s been a true source of inspiration and growth,” said Lu. “The ASA has connected me with brilliant colleagues and has given me the platform to collaborate on initiatives that shape the future of statistics in health care. It’s been a place where I’ve not only learned from others but also had the opportunity to give back to the field that I’m passionate about.”
She has had similar experiences with BBSW and DahShu. BBSW serves statisticians and data scientists in the San Francisco Bay Area and focuses on health care industry professionals. DahShu has gained more than 5,000 members since its inception 10 years ago via its online platform and conferences.
Lu credits her experiences with these organizations with opening her eyes to how statistics brings together diverse disciplines to solve complex problems and says they have been pivotal in shaping her perspective on the power of collaboration.
“When I look back at my career, I see a thread of curiosity and collaboration woven through everything I’ve done,” Lu said. “I’ve always been driven by the desire to use data to improve health care, and the ASA has been an incredible source of support and inspiration along the way. I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and contributing to the field of biostatistics and data science.”
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