Statistics gives meaning to numbers and include the ways in which information is collected, processed and interpreted. The statistician plans, collects, processes and analyses data to make decisions.
The work of the statistician can fall into two broad categories:
Academic (research) statistics: exceptional mathematical ability is needed for the training of students, the conducting of statistical research in a chosen specialised field and the developing or refining of theories.
Applied (practical) statistics: planning and conducting of experiments or projects to collect and analyse information in fields such as engineering, chemistry, medicine, finance, astronomy, life insurance, psychology and agriculture.
Typical responsibilities of the job include designing data acquisition trials, assessing results and analysing trends and applying statistical methodology to complex data. They also need to act in a consultancy capacity, design and implement data-gathering / management computer systems and software and supervise junior statistical staff. Other tasks are using statistics to make forecasts and to provide projected figures, presenting information in a variety of formats, conveying complex information to people who may not be specialists, liaising with colleagues and attending meetings.
Important skills are good IT skills, numerical skills, analytical skills, written and verbal communication skills, self-confidence and good inter-personal skills.