HARRISBURG, PA — At Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU), students take center stage. Our Student Spotlight highlights the internships they secure, the careers they launch, the research they publish, and the many other ways they put their knowledge into action. From science and technology to business and beyond, HU students are not only honing their expertise; they’re also making a meaningful impact in Central Pennsylvania and around the world.
Subhan Khalid ‘26, a PhD candidate in Data Science at Harrisburg University, is building a reputation as a thoughtful researcher whose work advances Bayesian methods in healthcare analytics. Slated to graduate in 2026, Subhan has parlayed his academic work into real-world research impact, including professional presentations and published findings that bridge advanced data science with improved patient outcomes.
Driven by Curiosity and Purpose
“Subhan to me was a great student because not only was he fearless in getting his research out there, but he also displayed the two qualities that I think are most important in a student: scientific thoughtfulness and curiosity,” reflects Dr. Alan Hitch, who supervised Subhan’s dissertation work. “The ideas that I put before him, he was curious enough to follow them on his own. The skills that he developed and discovered at HU will go a long way in his future success.”
Subhan’s journey at HU has been defined by a deep engagement with Bayesian modeling and a commitment to applying quantitative methods to meaningful health research.
Bayesian network modeling is a statistical method that uses probability theory to represent relationships among variables. It maps these relationships as a network of interconnected nodes, allowing researchers to model uncertainty, identify conditional dependencies, and update predictions as new data becomes available. Because it can incorporate both prior knowledge and observed evidence, Bayesian network modeling is especially powerful for decision-making in complex, data-rich fields such as healthcare, finance, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Conference Spotlight: BayesiaLab 2025, Boca Raton, FL
Subhan recently showcased his dissertation research at the 2025 BayesiaLab Conference in Boca Raton, Florida. The two-day event brought together scholars, practitioners, and innovators from around the world to explore the latest methodological developments and real-world applications of Bayesian network modeling.
Representing Harrisburg University on an international stage, Subhan delivered a presentation based on one of his dissertation chapters: an experience he describes as both empowering and professionally validating.
Q&A with Subhan Khalid ‘26
What inspired you to pursue a degree in Data Science, and what drew you to Harrisburg University?
To strengthen my expertise in Bayesian statistics and deep learning, I chose Harrisburg University’s research-focused PhD in Data Science program, which helped me grow both technically and professionally as a data scientist.
Can you tell us a little more about your dissertation topic, and what this subject means to you?
My dissertation applies Bayesian modeling techniques to study outcomes in hereditary angioedema patients, a topic that matters deeply to me because it shows how data science can directly inform healthcare decisions and improve patient outcomes.
What was it like to represent HU (and your own research) in a professional conference setting?
Representing HU at a professional conference was empowering and validating, as it allowed me to share impactful research while confidently engaging with experts in the field.
When you look back on your time at HU to this point, what stands out as a defining moment?
Seeing my research published and contributing to medical science has been one of the most rewarding moments of my academic journey.
Is there a professor or class that helped you grow?
The dissertation process and working closely with Dr. Hitch challenged me to think critically, deepen my understanding of Bayesian statistics and the scientific process behind meaningful research, and grow into an independent researcher.
How has HU prepared you for the professional world?
My degree in Data Science has equipped me with skills in Bayesian statistics, deep learning, and large language models (LLMs): expertise that will be increasingly valuable in the years ahead.
What impact do you hope to make after graduation?
I plan to continue using Bayesian statistics to conduct impactful medical research and develop data-informed healthcare strategies that improve patient outcomes.
Published Research from Subhan’s Dissertation
Subhan’s research has led to multiple peer-reviewed publications that explore quantitative predictors and healthcare outcomes using advanced statistical models:
- “Characteristics and Comorbidities Influencing Mortality Risk Among Hereditary Angioedema Patients” — This study examines how underlying conditions and patient characteristics correlate with mortality risk in individuals with hereditary angioedema, providing important insights into patient stratification and management
- “Effect of Fresh Frozen Plasma Infusion on Hospital Length of Stay for Patients with Hereditary Angioedema” — Subhan’s analysis sheds light on how clinical treatments like fresh frozen plasma infusions influence hospital stays, contributing evidence to support optimized care pathways
- “Geographic and Temporal Trends in Adult Diabetes Prevalence, United States, 2011-2021” — In this epidemiological study, Subhan investigates patterns in diabetes prevalence across the US over a decade, uncovering regional and temporal trends with implications for public health strategy.
What’s Next for Subhan
Looking ahead, Subhan will continue building on his academic momentum by presenting two of his papers at ISPOR 2026, a global conference focused on health economics and outcomes research (HEOR) taking place May 17–20, 2026, in Philadelphia. The event convenes healthcare leaders, researchers, policymakers, and analysts from around the world to advance patient-centered care, evidence-based decision making, and innovative healthcare strategies.
Subhan’s selection as a presenter at ISPOR spotlights the real-world relevance and interdisciplinary impact of his research, positioning him for a successful career at the intersection of data science and healthcare innovation. We wish you much success in your future endeavors, Subhan!
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ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Communications Manager for Harrisburg University, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
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