Professor Pagano's research in biostatistics continues in compute-intensive methods. These methods, which even only a few years ago would have been impossible, are now feasible because of the advances in computing technology. They add to the arsenal of techniques available for inference, and are particularly attractive because they diminish reliance on unverifiable assumptions. These range from time series methods, methods for calculating permutation distributions, and clustering methods, especially those dealing with statistics based on distances. These distance based methods are now finding applications in genetic studies and syndromic surveillance.
Professor Pagano is also interested in surveillance methods involving screening, and the associated laboratory tests. The accuracy of these tests is important, for example to maintain the integrity of the nation's blood supply. He is involved in more accurate testing methodologies, using existing technologies, that are doubly beneficial because they are also cheaper to implement; thus more testing can be done. This can mean a safer blood supply, for example.