Graduate Program: PhD in Biostatistics (2016)
Current Title: Director of Medical Affairs Biostatistics at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Location: Cambridge, MA
Shaun Bender, MS, PhD, is a 2016 graduate of the PhD in Biostatistics program, administered by the Graduate Group in Epidemiology and Biostatistics (GGEB) at the University of Pennsylvania. Before entering the doctoral program, Dr. Bender earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Minnesota in 2011. As a PhD student, he was co-advised by Justine Shults, PhD, a faculty member in the Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics.
Today, Dr. Bender is the Director of Medical Affairs Biostatistics at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
We reached out to Dr. Bender to learn more about his current work and to invite him to reflect on his time as a PhD student in the Graduate Group in Epidemiology and Biostatistics (GGEB) at the University of Pennsylvania.
What is a typical day like in your current role as Director of Medical Affairs Biostatistics?
Every week is different. My role focuses on supporting approved drugs for ATTR amyloidosis through post hoc analyses of clinical trial data and observational studies. The goal is to answer important scientific questions that go beyond the original trial design. I lead a team of statisticians and programmers, balancing mentoring and leadership with hands-on analytical work. It’s a dynamic and rewarding mix.
What do you value most about your current role?
I value the opportunity to use my statistical expertise to help others solve complex challenges. Collaborating across teams to find elegant, data-driven solutions to real-world problems is what I find most fulfilling.
Why did you choose the Graduate Group in Epidemiology & Biostatistics program?
I was drawn to Penn primarily for its academic rigor and location. I began college as a pre-medicine student, but after taking differential equations, I realized I wanted a more quantitative career path. Biostatistics was the perfect fit. It combined my interest in healthcare with a strong analytical foundation. Penn’s academic reputation made it an easy choice, and its location sealed the deal. Having grown up in Wisconsin and Minnesota, I was excited to experience life in a new city. Philadelphia’s history, culture, and energy were very exciting to me.
What was the most meaningful part of your experience in the program?
The support of the faculty and students was crucial for me. I failed the candidacy examination on my first attempt, which forced me to decide whether to continue or leave the program. I met with several professors who encouraged me to persevere, and thanks to their support and the friendships I had built, I stayed. Step by step, I moved forward, and earning my PhD remains one of the most meaningful accomplishments of my life.
What faculty member, mentor, or course was most influential for you and why?
My mentor, Dr. Justine Shults, was the most influential figure in my time at Penn. She was one of the most vocal advocates for me to stay in the program and later took me on as her dissertation student. Her guidance, brilliance, and generosity continue to inspire how I mentor others today.
What advice would you offer a current or aspiring student?
Graduate school is tough. It takes time, persistence, and resilience. But there’s a fantastic career waiting at the end. Stick with it, and you’ll be well-rewarded. It’s also important not to take failure personally. It took me a while to learn that failure isn’t a reflection of who you are. It’s an opportunity to learn and improve. Treat every setback as a chance to grow.
What is on the horizon for you in terms of your career goals or research path?
I was recently promoted, which had been a major career goal of mine for several years. Looking ahead, I’m focusing on developing my strategic mindset and leadership skills to continue growing in both management and scientific influence.