Summer 2024 SIBS Program Was a Success

The summer of 2024 marked another successful iteration of the Summer Institute for Biostatistics (SIBS) program, co-managed by Sujit Ghosh, Herle McGowan from NC State, alongside Megan Neely from Duke University. With Angie as the program coordinator, our collective efforts came together to create an enriching and unforgettable experience for all involved.

Kickoff: A Warm Welcome

The program commenced on June 9th, setting the tone with a welcoming dinner at the Student Talley Center. This initial gathering not only provided a warm welcome but also offered the participants a chance to get acquainted with each other and the team leading the program.

A Diverse Group of Aspiring Scholars

This year, we had the pleasure of hosting 10 talented participants from various parts of the nation. Most of them were juniors and seniors in their undergraduate programs, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. They were joined by two dedicated graduate student mentors, Micheal Lightfoot and Netra Prabhu, both from our department, who provided invaluable guidance and support throughout the program.

Engaging Lectures and Hands-On Learning

The heart of the SIBS program was a series of around 25 lectures, complemented by hands-on lab activities. Delivered by esteemed faculty from both NC State and Duke, these sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics. We started with introductory regression models and gradually advanced to more complex subjects, such as methods for handling censored and image data. In addition to the technical knowledge, the program included career-building sessions. These sessions offered practical advice on applying for graduate schools and explored the various industry and academic opportunities available in Biostatistics.

Industry Exposure and Weekend Adventures

Beyond the classroom, the participants had the opportunity to visit local industry giants such as AstraZeneca, Rho, and SAS. These educational field trips provided an inside look into the real-world applications of biostatistics, further enriching the learning experience. On weekends, the focus shifted to team-building activities. The students bonded over exciting outings to the NCSU Rope Course, Defy Gravity, Tower Escape Room, and Frankie’s Fun Park, which added a fun and dynamic aspect to the program.

A Data Hackathon to Remember

One of the standout moments of the program was the data hackathon project towards the end. Participants formed smaller teams to tackle a challenging dataset related to myocardial infarction (MI). With data from approximately 1,700 patients, their task was to identify risk factors for MI complications such as atrial fibrillation, pulmonary edema, or MI relapse. The teams presented their findings at the program’s conclusion, impressing everyone with their technical presentations and background research. Awards were given to recognize their outstanding efforts.

A Celebratory Conclusion

The program wrapped up on a high note with a sumptuous dinner at the 42nd Oyster Bar. This final gathering was not just a celebration of the hard work and learning that took place over the summer but also a moment to reflect on the friendships and connections made along the way.

The 2024 SIBS program was a resounding success, and we look forward to seeing the impact these bright minds will have on the field of biostatistics in the years to come.

Written by: Sujit Ghosh