Chao Li knows her work has the potential to change lives. She’s the senior director of biostatistics for Aura Biosciences, a pharmaceutical company focused on ocular and urologic oncology. Li plays a key role in designing, conducting and analyzing clinical trials to develop medications for patients diagnosed with cancer.

“This job is very meaningful,” said Li. “Every new drug that is approved has the potential to improve the quality of life for patients, especially when there aren’t drugs available to specifically target certain conditions.”

Li knew that she wanted to work for pharmaceutical companies when she was a Master of Public Health student at the University of Georgia College of Public Health in 2010. She credits mentorship and guidance from Ye Shen, Ernest Corn Professor and epidemiology and biostatistics department head, for helping her identify the steps to reach that goal.

“Dr. Shen is always asking his students, ‘What you want to do in the future?’ Then, he will try his very best to lay the foundation to get us prepared,” said Li. “He guided me to the PhD program and even helped with course selection to best prepare me for my career.”

Li said Shen’s most influential advice was how a doctorate would support her career goals. She went on to become his first doctoral student, graduating in December 2017 having already secured her first job the previous May.

“Chao entered the program with a clear vision of her career goals,” said Shen. She was exceptionally focused, smart and hardworking, and it has been gratifying to see her achieve the goals she set for herself.”

Since her time as a College of Public Health student, Li’s resume has grown, with experience at a range of pharmaceutical companies. Her title has developed from biostatistician to associate director, director and now senior director. She has developed, directed and overseen activities in the areas of biostatistics function, provided statistical consultations and strategic inputs, and represented the company in interactions with the regulatory agencies, corporate partners and contract research organizations.

Li said it’s the foundational skills she learned while taking master’s and doctoral level classes that enabled her to reach such impressive milestones and achievements in her career.

“I still check my textbook. I still go back to check my class notes,” said Li. “My biostatistics courses were very practical and still applicable to the work I do today.”

Shen also continues to be a mentor to Li. This continued connection, Li said, should be an encouragement to current and future CPH students.

“Talk to your advisor, tell them your desired career path and then ask for their advice,” said Li.

By Mackenzie Patterson