Celebrating the Career of Dr. Daowen Zhang: 26 Years of Dedication to the Department of Statistics

As Dr. Daowen Zhang prepares to retire on January 1, 2025 after 26 years of service to the Department of Statistics at North Carolina State University, he reflects on his career, the evolution of his work, and the lasting legacy of a department he has called home for more than two decades.

A Journey of Dedication
Dr. Zhang joined the department 26 years ago, after completing his PhD in Biostatistics from the University and Michigan in 1997 and following a senior research associate position with the Department of Epidemiology there until 1998. Since then, he has dedicated his career to research and teaching in our department. Zhang’s research interests are numerous and varied,  including clinical trials, correlated categorical data, epidemiology, genetics, longitudinal data, and semiparametric and nonparametric regressions. His coauthored works are published in peer-reviewed journals both in statistics and applied journals such as Statistics in Medicine, Computational Statistics and Data Analysis, and Genetics. Over the years, his work evolved naturally, adapting to the changing landscape of (bio)statistics while maintaining a focus on academic excellence and innovation. “It evolved smoothly over the years,” he said, a testament to his adaptability and consistent pursuit of progress.

Retirement Plans: Family and New Adventures
Retirement for Dr. Zhang brings an opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved change of pace. “I will have more personal time with my family,” he shared, adding that he also looks forward to traveling. While leaving behind the demands of academia, his curiosity and passion for exploration remain strong.

Cherished Memories
Reflecting on his time in the department, Dr. Zhang highlighted the unique camaraderie that defined his experience. “The department has been a family-like place for us. I enjoy working with colleagues,” he said, underscoring the supportive and collaborative environment that shaped his years at NCSU.

Advice for the Future
For students and faculty who will continue to shape the department’s future, Dr. Zhang offered advice rooted in his experiences. “Maintain the family-like environment of the department. Embrace new opportunities when they arise,” he said, emphasizing the importance of community and adaptability in achieving success.

A Place of Meaning and Growth
For Dr. Zhang, the Department of Statistics has been much more than a workplace. “The department of Statistics at NCSU means a lot to me! This is the single place I have spent the longest time,” he reflected. “I have the honor of working with so many talented and friendly colleagues and students. I will cherish this unforgettable memory in my life!”

As Dr. Zhang embarks on his next chapter, the department bids farewell to a valued mentor, colleague, and friend whose contributions have left an indelible mark. His legacy of dedication, warmth, and excellence will continue to inspire the NCSU Statistics community for years to come.