Mufan Wang graduated from Duke’s Master of Biostatistics program in May 2024. He is currently a doctoral student at North Carolina State University, studying Industrial Engineering.
Educational Journey
Could you share your academic background and what led you to pursue a Master’s in Biostatistics at Duke?
I completed my undergraduate studies in Statistics at Minzu University of China, where I also took courses related to biological sciences. This combination inspired my curiosity about biostatistics, as I realized it would allow me to integrate my knowledge from both fields. Additionally, Duke University's Department of Biostatistics is deeply rooted in its powerful School of Medicine, which provides ample real-world data to support biostatistical research. The department's diverse research directions further appealed to me, offering a wealth of opportunities for exploration and development.
What inspired you to continue with a doctorate after completing the Master’s program?
During my master’s program, I discovered a passion for solving challenging research problems, especially those where statistical approaches could lead practical applications. I also realized that pursuing a PhD would not only allow me to conduct independent research and expand my expertise but also open up a wider range of career opportunities. Whether in academia or industry, I believe that the advanced training and experience from a doctoral program will provide me with the tools and knowledge to address complex challenges and contribute effectively to my field.
Experiences and Impact
Were there any specific projects, internships, or research experiences during your Master's education that influenced your decision to pursue a doctorate?
During my master's education, I worked on Electronic Health Record (EHR) data, which gave me the opportunity to apply advanced statistical methods to solve real healthcare challenges. Through this project, I gained a complete understanding of the entire research process—from data collection and analysis to drawing meaningful conclusions. This experience helped me develop my critical thinking and problem-solving skills and deepened my understanding of biostatistics. It also made me realize my passion for addressing complex issues in healthcare, which ultimately inspired me to pursue a PhD.
Could you describe a memorable mentorship experience you had at Duke? How did it shape your career or academic goals?
One memorable mentorship experience was working closely with my advisor on my master's project. My advisor not only provided guidance on technical aspects of the research but also encouraged me to think independently and critically. I found this experience beneficial; it reinforced my desire to pursue a doctorate to continuously develop my skills and learn more to make contributions to this field.
Research and Career Path
What areas of biostatistics or related fields are you currently researching, and what excites you about this work?
As a first-year PhD student, my current focus is primarily on coursework. However, I am very interested in health informatics and related areas. What excites me about this is the potential to use data to improve healthcare outcomes, optimize medical decision-making, and ultimately contribute to better patient care.
What are some skills or techniques from Duke’s Master’s program that you use most frequently in your current research or studies?
During my master's program at Duke, the classroom knowledge, particularly in statistical methods and coding skills, has been crucial for my current studies. I also developed academic writing abilities, which helped me effectively communicate my ideas in both coursework and research papers. My research experience further taught me critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which I apply frequently in analyzing data and addressing research questions.
Advice for Current and Prospective Students
What advice would you give to students considering a Master’s in Biostatistics or a doctoral program?
For students considering a Master's in Biostatistics, my advice would be to start learning basic research concepts early and try to find an area that interests you. Begin with foundational topics and build your knowledge step by step. It’s helpful to gradually explore different areas to understand what really excites you.
For those considering a doctoral program, I recommend joining a lab in your field of interest and gaining systematic research experience. It's beneficial if you can work on projects that lead to publications, as this will strengthen your research background. Most importantly, it's crucial to have a clear idea of the research direction you are passionate about, as genuine interest is what will keep you motivated through the challenges of a PhD program.
What resources, classes, or activities would you recommend to current Master’s students who are thinking about pursuing a PhD?
For current Master’s students considering a PhD, I would recommend actively engaging with classmates and professors. If you find a peer with similar goals, you can work together, leveraging each other's strengths to achieve those goals. The faculty in our department are also very supportive, and they can provide a wealth of experience and guidance. Building these connections can be incredibly valuable as you navigate your path toward a PhD. Additionally, make use of online resources to stay informed, and participate in department panels and events to learn from alumni and discuss their experiences.
Reflections and Looking Ahead
Where do you hope to see yourself professionally in the next five to ten years?
Throughout my PhD, I hope to gain substantial research experience. If, in the coming years, I find that my academic journey is progressing in a way that I am satisfied with, I may pursue a postdoctoral position and continue in academia. However, I am also open to exploring roles in industry where I can apply my research skills to solve practical problems.
Any last thoughts on the importance of biostatistics in today’s world and what keeps you passionate about the field?
Biostatistics is a field that touches on so many different areas, and it’s constantly evolving. This diversity, along with the rapid pace of change, means that we always need to stay up to date and keep learning new things. This challenge of continuous learning, along with the chance to contribute to healthcare improvements, is what keeps me passionate about biostatistics.