Columbia University - Index

Columbia University - Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health - Index

" In addition to
gaining robust
training in methods and
statistics, my professors and peers
at the Mailman School helped
me understand the importance of
linking classroom lessons to realworld
situations.?
24
SYBIL ENG, MPH '96, PHD '02
Senior Director, Epidemiology, Safety and Risk Management, Pfi zer, Inc.
Upon graduating from the University of Chicago with a degree in biology, Sybil
Eng worked in a molecular biology lab analyzing blood samples for genetic
mutations predisposing populations to the development of diabetes mellitus.
Through this work, Dr. Eng came to understand the link between modifi able
population risk factors and the development of disease, which sparked an interest
in epidemiology. Her path was determined when she discovered a text on
molecular epidemiology written by a professor at the Mailman School.
"The book helped me understand that I could combine epidemiology with my
background in molecular biology,? Dr. Eng says. She quickly applied to the
Mailman School's MPH program.
After receiving an MPH in epidemiology in 1996, she worked for a year
before enrolling in the School's epidemiology doctoral program. Dr. Eng
defended her thesis in 2002 and, like many Mailman graduates, had several
career choices before her.
"Throughout my studies, I found that it often takes a long time to translate
the results from an epidemiologic study to a meaningful intervention that can be
implemented at the population level,? Dr. Eng explains. "In my career, I wanted
to see the practical application of my skills, so I took a position as an epidemiologist
at Pfi zer.?
"In addition to gaining robust training in methods and statistics, my professors
and peers at the Mailman School helped me understand the importance of linking
classroom lessons to real-world situations,? says Dr. Eng.