Samiran Ghosh, PhD announced as new Department Chair of Biostatistics and Data Science
A nationally recognized leader in the field of biostatistics and data science, Samiran Ghosh PhD, steps into his new role as Chair of the Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, bringing with him expertise in statistical methodologies in adaptive clinical trials, machine learning, precision medicine, and a deep commitment to mentoring and interdisciplinary research. Ghosh previously served as vice chair of the department since 2022, providing him with critical insight into its progress and top-ranked academic programs.
“His leadership capabilities and familiarity with the department fuel me with confidence that he will maintain the momentum of driving the department towards success,” said Eric Boerwinkle, PhD, Dean of the School of Public Health and Kozmetsky Family Chair in Human Genetics. His appointment as Chair signals the school’s continued efforts to interpret data and transform it into knowledge to create a healthier world.
“I will do my best to take the department to the next level, honoring the trust that Dr. Boerwinkle has placed in me,” said Ghosh. “Biostatistics has always operated at a crossroads—but now more than ever, as our discipline increasingly emphasizes collaboration, often with researchers beyond traditional statistics. With rapid advances in AI and health data science, the imperative to perform and report ethical statistics has become not only more urgent but also more complex, demanding new approaches and continuous innovation.“
In his new role, he plans to foster innovation and collaboration while expanding the department’s impact on translating big data into proven strategies to create health solutions. The department will help shape the next generation of data-informed public health solutions by bridging data science with application.
Ghosh attended the University of Calcutta in India where he received a BSc in statistics, followed by an Master’s degree in computer science and engineering from Jadavpur University. He later obtained an MS in statistics from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, followed by his PhD in statistics from the University of Connecticut. Ghosh has a proven track record of advancing statistical science to support real-world health solutions. He holds a range of memberships across nationally recognized organizations such as the American Statistical Association (ASA), Statistics in Mental Health Section of ASA, Society for Clinical Trials, International Society for CNS Clinical Trials and Methodology, American Statistical Association, International Indian Statistical Association, and the International Society for Bayesian Analysis. He is an elected fellow of the ASA.
We are excited to welcome his vision and leadership in his new role and continue the advancement of public and population health research and education for the department. For over 55 years, the Department of Biostatistics and Data Science has played a pivotal role in advancing public health through development of its rigorous academic programs and certificates, cutting-edge research, and cross-disciplinary partnerships. Under Ghosh’s leadership, that legacy is poised to continue this momentum.