Is BDSI For You?

Who is BDSI for?

Do you like math?

Do you feel passionate about working with data?

Do you want to improve human health?

If yes, then BDSI is definitely for you! We seek a cohort of highly motivated undergraduates with a wide range of interests and skill sets.

Most of our participants are majoring in math, statistics or computer science. But our cohorts always contain students from biology, neuroscience, psychology and other sciences -- even the occasional English, music, or humanities major! Prerequisite coursework is flexible, but prior experience in coding, calculus, and basic statistics is recommended.

Some students are looking for an impactful way to apply their mathematical skills. Others arrrive with a wet lab background looking to add hands-on experience analyzing large data sets.

Regardless of your current major, BDSI will bring together your interdisciplinary interests and help you develop strong quantitative skills. You will dive into the world of big data, biology, medicine and public health to explore and solve real-world problems.

All BDSI participants are provided with: 

  • Single-occupancy, on-campus dormitory housing at Couzens HAll (5 minute walk from to the School of Public Health)
  • An $1,800 stipend
  • Up to $500 in travel reimbursements
  • $200 in Blue Bucks for on-campus dining
  • Lunches and dinners provided at numerous program events and social activities

What can you plan to get from your BDSI experience?

  • Skill Development
    • Learn the principles of applied biostatistics, data science and machine learning from recognized experts in the field
    • Gain practical coding competencies and apply technical skills through tutorials and hands-on practice
  • Research Experience
    • Collaborate in small, faculty-mentored research groups using cutting-edge data and statistical and machine learning methods to answer health-related research questions
    • Develop your scientific communication skills through poster and oral presentations
  • Mentorship and Networking
    • Meet and learn from practicing biostatisticians and investigators engaged in medical and health research
    • Grow your network with like-minded peers and mentors who will support your academic and professional journey
  • A Competitive Edge for Your Future
    • Build a highly competitive resume for graduate school and STEM careers
    • Earn personalized letters of recommendation from faculty mentors
    • Showcase the experience you gain in research, symposium presentations, and research posters in your future applications 

BDSI provides on-campus housing for the duration of the program, a stipend, meals, and limited reimbursement of travel costs. To learn more about the program specifics see our FAQs. 

To read about our application requirements and submit an application, click here.