Epidemiology is defined as the study of the distribution and determinants of disease and injury within human populations. A goal of the epidemiologist is to identify the factors or agents that are linked with the observed patterns of disease or injury. The Divisions program stresses environmental, occupational, clinical, quantitative, community, molecular and genetic epidemiology.

The field of biostatistics is characterized by data analysis, and interpretation of results, which are tied to environmental and biomedical research. Applied statistical methodology is emphasized in the biostatistics program. The epidemiology and biostatistics programs are closely linked with faculty and students working together on interdisciplinary research activities.

All classical study designs are currently utilized including randomized clinical trials, longitudinal studies, environmental intervention approaches, retrospective cohort, cross-sectional and case control methodologies.

Current research undertaken in the Division is wide ranging and includes health effects related to exposures to lead, arsenic, solvents, fuels, pesticides, organochlorines, fibers, radiation, statistical issues in regulatory toxicology, alcohol and illicit drugs, and work related ergonomic disorders.

Areas of research include:
children’s health, allergy, asthma, reproductive, hormone, cancer, genetics of complex diseases, growth and development, neurological disorders, pulmonary disease, injuries, stroke, heart disease, bone health, mortality and exposure body burden.