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Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists are public health professionals who investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury in humans. They seek to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative health outcomes through community education and health policy.

Epidemiologists typically do the following:
  • Plan and direct studies of public health problems to find ways to prevent and to treat the problems
  • Collect and analyze data—including using observations, interviews, surveys, and samples of blood or other bodily fluids—to find the causes of diseases or other health problems
  • Communicate their findings to health practitioners, policymakers, and the public
  • Manage public health programs by planning programs, monitoring progress, analyzing data, and seeking ways to improve them, among other activities
  • Supervise professional, technical, and clerical personnel

Epidemiologists collect and analyze data to investigate health issues. For example, an epidemiologist might collect and analyze demographic data to determine who is at the highest risk for a particular disease. They may also research and investigate the trends in populations of survivors of certain diseases, such as cancer, so that effective treatments can be identified and repeated across the population.

Epidemiologists typically work in applied public health or in research. Applied epidemiologists work for state and local governments, addressing public health problems directly. They are often involved with education outreach and survey efforts in communities. Research epidemiologists typically work for universities or in affiliation with federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Epidemiologists who work in private industry commonly conduct research for health insurance companies or pharmaceutical companies. Those in nonprofit companies often do public health advocacy work. Epidemiologists involved in research are rarely advocates because scientific research is expected to be unbiased.

Epidemiologists typically specialize in one or more of the following public health areas:
  • Infectious diseases
  • Bioterrorism/emergency response
  • Maternal and child health
  • Chronic diseases
  • Environmental health
  • Injury
  • Occupational health
  • Substance abuse
  • Oral health

Personality & Interest

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Epidemiologists typically have an interest in the Thinker and Helper interest areas, according to the Holland Code framework. The Thinking interest area indicates a focus on researching, investigating, and increasing the understanding of natural laws. The Helping interest area indicates a focus on assisting, serving, counselling, or teaching other people.

If you are not sure whether you have a Thinking or Helping interest which might fit with a career as an epidemiologist, you can take a career test to measure your interests.

Epidemiologists should also possess the following specific qualities:

Communication skills. Epidemiologists must use their speaking and writing skills to inform the public and community leaders of public health risks. Clear communication is also required to work effectively with other health professionals.


Critical-thinking skills. Epidemiologists analyze data to determine how best to respond to a public health problem or an urgent health-related emergency.


Detail oriented. Epidemiologists must be precise and accurate in moving from observation and interview to conclusions.


Math and statistical skills. Epidemiologists may need advanced statistical skills when designing and administering studies and surveys. Skill in using large databases and statistical computer programs may also be important.


Teaching skills. Epidemiologists may be involved in community outreach activities that educate the public about health risks and healthy living.
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