Lab Director of Molecular Pathology and Cytogenetics

About the role

The Lab Director of Molecular Pathology and Cytogenetics will assume responsibility for the technical operations of the Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics Laboratories, including pre and post-analytical functions. They will also work with the Medical Director to develop and implement technical policies, systems, and procedures for the Medical Genetics Laboratory. This position requires a PhD in Life Science relevant to genetics, molecular biology, cancer biology, etc., with previous experience in a clinical laboratory, including administrative and managerial experience in technical activities.

Responsibilities

• Assumes responsibility for effective planning, organization, direction, and coordination of technical operations of the Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics Laboratories, including pre and post-analytical functions.
• Controls productivity, fiscal responsibility, and quality of results of tests performed under his/her direction.
• Works with Medical Director to develop and implement technical policies, systems, and procedures for the Medical Genetics Laboratory.
• Develops and implements technical methods, processes, and procedures; directs technical training programs as required.
• Ensures validity, accuracy, and analyses of all tests performed within the Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics Diagnostics Laboratories.
• Determines and develops department standards for test procedures and ensures strict adherence to quality control programs.
• Participates in proficiency surveys to evaluate the Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics Diagnostics Laboratory's performance.
• Directs continuing assessment of test procedures; conducts and directs examination of new techniques and methods to improve quality, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency.
• Maintains liaison with physicians and support staff, such as genetic counselors, nurses, and nurse practitioners.
• Develops and maintains contacts with educational institutions, professional organizations, government agencies, etc.
• Assists in performance of experimental testing procedures as necessary.
• Appraises performance of subordinates and contributes to their development.
• Participates in development of operating and capital equipment budget for the Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics Diagnostics Laboratories.
• Assumes responsibility for ensuring that the Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics Laboratory operates within assigned budget.
• Attends and participates in meetings of board and committees related to administration of the core laboratory as appropriate and assigned.

Requirements

• Board certification or Active Candidacy by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics in Laboratory Genetics and Genomics, Clinical Cytogenetics and Genomics, or Clinical Molecular Genetics and Genomics is required.
• Experience with a variety of molecular genetics and cytogenetic methodologies including next-generation sequencing, RT-PCR, Sanger sequencing, microarray, FISH, karyotype, etc.
• Knowledge of CLIA and CAP regulations.
• Analytical ability to serve in an advisory/consultative role in determining and/or developing strategies, policies, processes, protocols, and methods, frequently in the absence of guidelines or technical assistance, and to evaluate and direct complex systems that foster innovative approaches to procedures/processes.
• Communication and interpersonal skills for frequent contact with internal customers as well as stakeholders external to the DMC to persuade or negotiate on a wide range of subjects in situations which may be controversial, sensitive, and/or lead to confrontation.
• Ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team-based environment. Project management skills including the ability to define program, project, or process objectives, identify stakeholders and their interests, plan steps, coordinate and allocate human, technological, and fiscal resources to accomplish goals and objectives in a resourceful yet timely manner.
• Leadership skills including demonstrated willingness to pursue leadership roles with increasing levels of accountability, comfort with decision-making responsibilities, coaching, teaching, and counseling skills, and the ability to inspire and build confidence in others and to forge alliances and garner support.

Qualifications

• PhD in Life Science relevant to genetics, molecular biology, cancer biology, etc.