Become anEpidemiologist

Becoming an Epidemiologist means being at the forefront of public health, working to prevent diseases and improve community well-being. You’ll have the chance to investigate outbreaks, develop strategies for disease prevention, and contribute to global health initiatives. It’s a rewarding career that allows you to make a tangible impact on people’s lives, protecting populations from infectious diseases and other health threats.

• Investigate the causes and spread of diseases.
• Impact public health policies and preventive measures.
• Conduct research that can save lives and improve health.
• Work in a dynamic field with diverse career opportunities.

Epidemiologists study the patterns and causes of diseases within populations. They collect and analyse data to identify trends, risk factors, and possible interventions. They design and conduct studies, collaborate with other health professionals, and communicate findings to policymakers and the public. Whether investigating a local outbreak or studying long-term health trends, Epidemiologists play a crucial role in safeguarding public health.

Epidemiologists work in various sectors, including:

• Public Health Departments
• Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
• Research Institutions
• Pharmaceutical Companies
• Government Agencies

• Data Analysis
• Critical Thinking
• Communication
• Problem-Solving
• Attention to Detail
• Research Methods

Subjects like Biology, Mathematics, Statistics, and Health Sciences provide the foundation for understanding disease patterns and conducting research. Chemistry and Environmental Science are also valuable for studying how environmental factors affect health. Additionally, courses in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Public Health offer specialised knowledge and skills essential for this career.

Track Disease Outbreaks

Analyse data to track and predict disease outbreaks. Imagine using advanced software to identify emerging health threats before they spread, helping to prevent epidemics and save lives.

Develop Public Health Campaigns

Create and evaluate public health campaigns to combat specific diseases. Picture designing a campaign to increase vaccination rates or reduce the spread of infectious diseases, making a tangible impact on community health.

Conduct Field Research

Travel to various locations to collect data and study disease patterns in different populations. Think about working on-site in different countries to investigate health issues and implement preventive measures.

Collaborate with Global Health Organisations

Work with organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO) to address global health challenges. Imagine being part of a team that develops strategies to tackle pandemics or improve health outcomes worldwide.

Analyse Health Data Trends

Use statistical software to analyse trends and patterns in health data. Picture interpreting complex datasets to uncover new insights into disease prevention and control, shaping future research and health policies.

Contribute to Vaccine Development

Participate in research teams focused on developing new vaccines. Envision working on groundbreaking projects to create vaccines for emerging diseases, playing a crucial role in global health security.

Professor Fiona Stanley

Professor Fiona Stanley is a leading Australian epidemiologist renowned for her work in child and maternal health. As the founder of the Telethon Kids Institute, she has been instrumental in research on childhood diseases and developmental disorders, including the significant WA Data Linkage Project, which integrates health data to improve public health interventions.

Dr. Julie Leask

Dr. Julie Leask is a prominent epidemiologist and professor at University of Sydney, known for her research in vaccine uptake and public health communication. Her influential project, the Immunisation Uptake Research, focuses on improving vaccine acceptance and addressing vaccine hesitancy in Australia.

Professor Sharon Lewin

Professor Sharon Lewin is the Director of the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity. She is recognised for her research on HIV/AIDS and infectious diseases. Her notable work, the HIV Cure Research Initiative, aims to find new treatments and potential cures for HIV, significantly advancing the field of epidemiology.

Dr. Rachael K.

Dr. Rachael K., an epidemiologist at Burnet Institute, has made significant contributions to global health research, particularly in infectious diseases. Her project, the Global Health Surveillance Initiative, focuses on improving disease surveillance systems in low-resource settings, enhancing global health security.

• Analytical
• Curious
• Detail-Oriented
• Empathetic
• Persistent
• Resilient

Bachelor of Public Health

This degree provides foundational knowledge in health promotion, disease prevention, and epidemiology. University of Melbourne offers a Bachelor of Public Health that prepares students for careers in epidemiology through courses in health data analysis and disease prevention strategies.

Master of Public Health (MPH) with a Specialisation in Epidemiology

For advanced studies, the MPH with a specialisation in epidemiology, offered by institutions such as University of Sydney and University of Melbourne, equips students with comprehensive skills in disease surveillance, biostatistics, and public health research.

Master of Epidemiology

This focused program is available at University of Queensland and University of Western Australia (UWA). It provides advanced training in epidemiological research methods, disease distribution, and risk factor analysis, preparing students for specialized roles in epidemiology.

As you pursue your dream of becoming an Epidemiologist, consider exploring interdisciplinary studies to broaden your knowledge and skills. Combining degrees in Epidemiology with fields like Biostatistics, Environmental Science, or Sociology can provide a deeper understanding of public health issues from multiple perspectives. For example, pairing Epidemiology with Sociology can help you understand how social factors influence health outcomes, while studying Environmental Science can enhance your understanding of how environmental factors impact disease transmission.

Participating in research projects, internships, and volunteer opportunities can complement your academic studies and provide practical experience in the field of Epidemiology. Collaborating with professionals from diverse backgrounds will sharpen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing you for the challenges of addressing public health issues.

During your studies to become an Epidemiologist, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of disease patterns, risk factors, and prevention strategies. You’ll learn statistical methods for analysing health data, study designs for investigating outbreaks and chronic diseases, and ethical principles in public health research. Courses in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Environmental Health will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to assess and respond to public health threats.

Thinking about work experience? Aspiring Epidemiologists can learn and  apply their theoretical knowledge in real settings.

Opportunities with public health agencies, research institutions, or charitable organisations can offer valuable opportunities to work on epidemiological studies, data analysis, and public health interventions.

On-the-job experience allows you to develop practical skills in study design, data collection, and interpretation, preparing you for a successful career in Epidemiology.

Certification in Epidemiology

Institutions like Australian National University (ANU) offer certifications that cover essential topics such as disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and statistical analysis. These certifications enhance expertise and open additional career opportunities.

Advanced Training in Biostatistics

Platforms such as Coursera and edX offer advanced courses in biostatistics, which are crucial for conducting complex data analyses in epidemiological research.

Professional Development and Short Courses:

Workshops in Disease Surveillance and Control

Participate in workshops provided by organisations such as the Australian Epidemiology Association (AEA), which focus on practical training in disease surveillance techniques and control measures.

Courses in Public Health Research Methods

Short courses offered by institutions like University of Western Australia (UWA) provide practical skills in research methodologies and data analysis relevant to epidemiology.

Internships with Public Health Agencies

Secure internships with public health agencies or research institutions to gain hands-on experience in epidemiological research and data analysis.

Field Research Positions: Engage in field research positions to collect data and study disease patterns, contributing to public health interventions and gaining practical insights into epidemiological work.

Join Professional Associations

Connect with professional bodies such as the Australian Epidemiology Association (AEA) or the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) to stay informed on industry trends and build a professional network.

Attend Public Health Conferences

Participate in conferences like the Australian Public Health Conference or the International Epidemiology Association (IEA) Congress to engage with experts, learn about the latest research, and showcase your work.

The career opportunities for Epidemiologists are extensive and varied, spanning numerous locations and sectors. In Sydney, prominent positions are available within public health agencies and leading research institutions. Melbourne provides dynamic opportunities in academic research and policy development. Brisbane offers roles focused on disease control and health promotion, while Perth presents unique opportunities in resource-based health research. Each city offers a distinct professional landscape, enabling epidemiologists to contribute to impactful research and public health initiatives, making this career path both fulfilling and rewarding.