Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Statistician, Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access

at PATH

🏢 About PATH

PATH is a global health nonprofit that accelerates progress toward universal health coverage by developing and scaling innovations in partnership with governments worldwide. Working at PATH means contributing directly to life-saving health solutions, with a focus on equitable access for low-resource settings. The Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access (CVIA) is at the forefront of vaccine development, making this a unique opportunity to impact global health through science.

About This Role

As a Senior Statistician at PATH, you will lead the statistical design and analysis of oral polio vaccine (OPV) clinical trials across Phase 1–3, including novel OPV (nOPV) studies. You will be responsible for sample size calculations, randomization, interim analyses, and DSMB support, ensuring scientific rigor in vaccine development. Your work will directly influence the immunogenicity, safety, and shedding profiles of vaccines, ultimately contributing to polio eradication efforts.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing statistical analysis plans, programming analyses in SAS or R, and interpreting results for immunogenicity or safety data. You could also collaborate with clinical teams and CRO partners on trial design, prepare for DSMB meetings, or contribute to regulatory documents. Expect regular virtual meetings with international colleagues across time zones.

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🎯 Who PATH Is Looking For

  • Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in biostatistics or statistics with 5+ years of experience supporting clinical research, preferably in vaccine trials.
  • Proven expertise in designing and analyzing vaccine clinical trials, including sample size determination, randomization, and interim analyses.
  • Strong programming skills in SAS and R, with experience analyzing immunogenicity, safety, and shedding data.
  • Experience overseeing statistical CRO partners and contributing to regulatory submissions (e.g., protocols, Investigator's Brochures).
  • Willingness to travel 10–15% and work across US and international sites, with excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.

📝 Tips for Applying to PATH

1

Highlight your experience with vaccine clinical trials, especially OPV or nOPV, in your resume and cover letter; PATH is specifically seeking this expertise.

2

Emphasize your proficiency in SAS and R by providing concrete examples of analyses you've conducted, such as immunogenicity or safety data.

3

Demonstrate your ability to lead statistical aspects of trials, including sample size calculations, randomization, and DSMB support, as this is a key responsibility.

4

Show familiarity with regulatory submissions and CRO oversight; mention any experience reviewing protocols or Investigator's Brochures.

5

Align your motivation with PATH's mission of global health equity; explain why you want to contribute to polio eradication and vaccine access.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter should focus on: (1) your specific experience with vaccine clinical trials, particularly OPV/nOPV, and how it aligns with PATH's polio eradication goals; (2) your technical skills in SAS and R, with examples of complex analyses you've performed; (3) your experience leading statistical design and collaborating with DSMBs and CROs; and (4) your passion for global health and PATH's mission to ensure equitable access to vaccines.

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Learn about PATH's Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access (CVIA) and its specific projects on polio eradication, including nOPV development.
  • → Understand the current landscape of polio eradication efforts, including the role of OPV and nOPV in global health.
  • → Research PATH's partnerships with governments and organizations like the WHO, Gavi, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to understand the collaborative environment.
  • → Familiarize yourself with PATH's values and mission, especially its commitment to health equity and innovation in low-resource settings.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience designing and analyzing vaccine clinical trials, particularly for OPV or nOPV. What were the key statistical challenges?
2 How do you approach sample size calculation and randomization for a Phase 3 vaccine trial? Provide an example.
3 What is your experience with DSMB support and interim analyses? How do you ensure statistical rigor and data integrity?
4 How do you manage statistical CRO partners to ensure high-quality deliverables and adherence to timelines?
5 Can you discuss your proficiency in SAS and R? What types of analyses have you performed for immunogenicity, safety, or shedding endpoints?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid generic applications that don't highlight vaccine trial experience; PATH needs someone with specific expertise in this area.
  • Don't downplay your programming skills; failing to provide concrete examples of SAS and R usage can make you seem underqualified.
  • Avoid showing a lack of understanding of PATH's mission or the importance of polio eradication; demonstrating a genuine passion for global health is crucial.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to PATH!

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