A Conversation with Dean Follmann of NIAID.

This article is a conversation with Dean Follmann, the chief of the Biostatistics Research Branch at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). The author describes their visit to the branch and the diverse group of statisticians they encountered. Dean Follmann discusses his journey into statistics, his role at NIAID, and the skills needed in their work environment. He also talks about the biostatistical work related to COVID-19, including the development of vaccines and providing advice to NIH leadership. The report discusses the impact of COVID-19 on the Chelsea area, highlighting how it was one of the first and hardest-hit communities. Factors such as overcrowding, pollution, chronic diseases, and social mixing from jobs contributed to the virus having a major impact on the Chelsea community. The report also mentions that the local high school implemented a mandate, likely referring to a COVID-19 safety measure. [Extracted from the article]