A data science team based at the Center for Design and Analysis at the biotechnology company Amgen has been awarded the 2025 Award for Statistical Excellence in the Pharmaceutical Industry. The team was recognised for developing an innovative statistical methodology that forecasts and optimises patient enrolment in global clinical trials, while accounting for real-world operational constraints.
The
award is presented by the RSS in partnership with Statisticians in the Pharmaceutical Industry (PSI) and announced at the PSI annual conference which took place in London this month.
The winning methodology (
Vlad Anisimov, Data Science Director and Matt Austin, Executive Director Data Sciences, Amgen) combines advanced statistical modelling techniques with practical trial design considerations and significantly enhances the efficiency and predictability of clinical trial operational planning. The judges praised the team’s creative and technically sophisticated approach to addressing one of the most persistent challenges in clinical research: patient enrolment. They highlighted the methodology’s ability to meet user needs through a blend of innovation and rigorous statistical thinking.
Prof Dr Vlad Anisimov said: ‘I’m proud that our team won this award. This recognition reflects the strength of cross-functional collaboration across Amgen teams —and the impact that innovative statistics can have on accelerating drug development.’