Surveillance Epidemiologist

Surveillance epidemiologists are vital to protecting public health. They play a key role in tracking and investigating disease outbreaks, identifying patterns and trends, and developing strategies to prevent and control the spread of disease.

What Does a Surveillance Epidemiologist Do?

Surveillance epidemiologists collect and analyze data on the occurrence of disease in a population. They use this data to identify trends and patterns, and to develop strategies to prevent and control the spread of disease. Surveillance epidemiologists may also work with other public health professionals to develop and implement public health policies and programs.

Surveillance epidemiologists typically work for government agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or for academic institutions. Some surveillance epidemiologists also work for non-profit organizations or private companies.

Education and Training for Surveillance Epidemiologists

Surveillance epidemiologists typically have a master's degree in public health (MPH) or a related field, such as epidemiology, biostatistics, or health sciences. Some surveillance epidemiologists also have a doctoral degree (PhD). In addition to their formal education, surveillance epidemiologists typically have experience working in public health or a related field.

Skills and Qualities of a Surveillance Epidemiologist

Surveillance epidemiologists need to have excellent analytical skills and be able to interpret complex data. They also need to have strong communication skills and be able to work independently and as part of a team.

Some of the key skills and qualities of a surveillance epidemiologist include: