Research in statistics can range from mathematical studies of the theoretical underpinnings of a statistical model or method to the development of novel statistical models and methods and a thorough study of their properties. Frequently, statistics research is motivated and informed by collaborations with experts in a particular substantive field.

Their scientific studies and data collection efforts may yield complex data that cannot be adequately handled using standard statistical methodology. Statisticians aim to develop methods that address the scientific or policy questions of the researcher. In doing so, statisticians must consider how efficiently and effectively the proposed methodology can be implemented and what guarantees can be provided as to the performance of the proposed methods. Such questions can often be answered using a combination of mathematical, analytical, and computational techniques.