Biostatistics and Epidemiology
Westat optimizes clients’ clinical trials and disease surveillance studies, swiftly generating crucial insights to protect and enhance the nation's health. Our researchers tackle emerging questions and concerns about diseases with precision and expertise.
Overview
Westat is at the forefront of health research, and our biostatisticians and epidemiologists bring innovative approaches to address a wide range of clinical trial, observational, and surveillance studies. Our clients rely on us for expert methodology, innovative infrastructure, experienced coordination, and actionable results.
Our Expertise
Biostatistical Methods
Motivated by a commitment to enhancing health, Westat biostatisticians skillfully employ suitable methods to tackle a diverse range of scientific inquiries in both observational and clinical research. Our analyses span from small patient samples in clinical settings to millions of records in electronic health systems, each potentially containing hundreds of data points. When existing methods fall short or the impact of an analytic decision is uncertain, we collaborate with our clients to develop and test new methodologies.
Epidemiologic Studies
Westat’s epidemiologists have been pivotal in critical epidemiological research, employing diverse study methods and designs to analyze data both retrospectively and prospectively. We’ve developed and utilized innovative tools and methods to support epidemiologic studies across a wide range of diseases. Our research has had direct public health and policy impacts.
Disease Surveillance
Westat leverages its expertise in epidemiology, statistics, and public health to enhance disease surveillance. By monitoring trends, identifying sentinel events, and tracking key metrics, we equip decisionmakers with vital situational awareness. Collaborating with federal and state agencies, we employ rigorous methodologies in both traditional and innovative data collection and analysis, delivering timely insights to drive public health action.
Experts
Meet the Team
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Duck-Hye Yang
Principal Research Associate
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Patrick Mitchell
Principal Research Associate
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Rebecca Birch
Principal Research Associate
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Sarah Reese
Principal Statistical Associate
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Zachary Weber
Principal Research Associate
Projects
Keep Reading
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Can natural language processing improve the completeness of immunization data? -
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
How does our support for clinical trials reduce new HIV infections and improve care for young people? -
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Does cancer screening save lives?
Insights
Deep Dive with Our Experts
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Perspective
Westat @ JSM 2025: Enriching Society with StatisticsJuly 2025
Westat staff will be participating in the 2025 Joint Statistical Meetings (JSM), the largest annual gathering of statisticians and data scientists in North America. Held…
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Expert Interview
2026 ASA President Mulrow: Communities in Action Advancing SocietyJuly 2025
Jeri Mulrow, MS, Vice President and Sector Lead for Data Solutions at Westat, will serve as the 121st President of the American Statistical Association (ASA),…
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Expert Interview
What Impact Is AI Having in Government Research?July 2025
With the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI) in government research, questions regarding its impact on public policy and its ability to address today’s pressing…