620-382 Biostatistics

620-371 and one of 620-202 or [01]620-204.

This subject introduces a range of methods and concepts used in the design of studies for the biological sciences, and the analysis of the resultant data. The emphasis of the course is on understanding how, why and when the various methods should be used rather than on a detailed theoretical development. Students will develop an understanding of a range of important statistical methodology relevant to the biological sciences and its practical implementation.

Topics are selected from issues in study design: designed experiments versus observational studies, randomisation, blocking, stratification, matching, confounding, sample size, practical issues in randomised controlled trials. Design of surveys and analysis of survey data. Statistical aspects of diagnostic tests, including sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative predictive values, receiver operating characteristic curve. Survival analysis: Kaplan-Meier estimates, parametric models, non-parametric models. Bioinformatics: an introduction.

The subject develops the students' generic skills, including thinking critically and organising knowledge; analysing data, interpreting results and presenting conclusions in a clear and comprehensible manner; using computers for data analysis and presentation; and solving problems.

Up to 50 pages of written assignments and a 3-hour end-of semester written examination;