Chair named for Department of Biostatistics, Data Science, and Epidemiology

Teresa Waters, PhD, dean of Augusta University’s School of Public Health, has announced the addition of Sejong Bae, PhD, as the inaugural chair of the Department of Biostatistics, Data Science, and Epidemiology.

Bae, who spent the last 13 years at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, including his most recent role as director of the Bioinformatics & Biostatistics Group for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, will begin in May.

“I am excited to welcome Dr. Bae to AU’s School of Public Health as our inaugural chair of the Department of Biostatistics, Data Science, and Epidemiology,” Waters stated. “Public Health encompasses a wide array of scientific tools, and Dr. Bae’s expertise in biostatistics and population-based research will be crucial as we strive to enhance public health in our community, across Georgia and beyond, while also growing research and educating the next generation of public health professionals. I look forward to seeing how he will leverage his experience to support our school’s continued development and growth.”

Bae has more than two decades of experience in biostatistics, data science and epidemiology, with an extensive background in both research and academic leadership. His expertise spans clinical, translational and population-based research and information systems, which are key in today’s data-driven world.

“I am excited to be joining Augusta University’s Department of Biostatistics, Data Science, and Epidemiology,” Bae said. “As inaugural chair, I am looking forward to building a strong foundation for long-term success and establishing a nationally-recognized, interdisciplinary department that serves as a hub for innovative research, education and collaboration.”

Most recently, Bae served as director of the Bioinformatics & Biostatistics group for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB, driving strategic planning and growth. He also served as co-lead of the Cervical Cancer SPORE biostatistics core and led numerous collaborative projects, including partnerships with Morehouse School of Medicine/Tuskegee University, the DMAC UAB-SRP, and the UAB Research Center of Excellence in Arsenicals.

Over his career, Bae has published more than 220 peer-reviewed publications; served on numerous study steering committees; data safety monitoring committees, observational study monitoring committees and chaired the CARDIA Data Analysis Committee, advancing research in cancer, health disparities, and chronic diseases. His statistical leadership and expertise have had a lasting impact on cancer research and public health.

“My vision for the department includes research excellence; skill development; and impact, leveraging biostatistics, data science and epidemiology to address public health challenges locally, nationally and globally,” said Bae.

As an educator and mentor, he is known for his dedication to growing and guiding faculty and students. Additionally, he is a prominent figure in the statistical community, frequently invited to chair sessions at national and international conferences. He also serves as associate editor for Cancer Health Disparities.

Bae earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Master of Science in Statistics at the University of Georgia. He holds a PhD in Biostatistics from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.