Lab Director of Molecular Pathology and Cytogenetics

DMC University Laboratories (DMCUL) is a prominent regional laboratory system providing comprehensive diagnostic testing services to the eight hospitals under the Detroit Medical Center. Established in 1993, DMCUL has evolved into an integrated laboratory network that includes Core Laboratories, Specialty Laboratories, two rapid response hospital laboratories, a Centralized Stat Lab, a Centralized Blood Bank Lab, and an extensive outreach infrastructure. This infrastructure supports patient service centers, remote ambulatory laboratories, marketing staff, a courier system, and a billing department. The labs serve the entire Southeast Michigan market and continue to grow rapidly, offering a vast menu of over 1,000 tests with a focus on high-end specialty tests. Less than 1 percent of tests are outsourced to outside reference laboratories, highlighting DMCUL's commitment to in-house expertise and quality. Additionally, DMCUL provides reference laboratory services to other healthcare systems in Southeastern Michigan and select out-of-state facilities, underscoring its reputation in the medical community.

The Division of Laboratory Genetics at DMCUL includes Molecular Pathology, Cytogenetics, and HLA laboratories. These labs perform a wide array of testing for inherited diseases and cancer. The division serves a diverse client base, including DMC physicians, regional outreach clients, and the Karmanos Cancer Institute—an NCI-Designated Cancer Center located on campus. DMC and Karmanos are academic institutions affiliated with Wayne State University School of Medicine. This affiliation supports various training programs including residencies and fellowships in Pathology and Hematology/Oncology, as well as a Genetic Counseling program. The candidate hired for this position will be appointed as faculty at Wayne State University Department of Pathology, with an academic rank aligned with their experience. This role requires active participation in the education and training of residents, fellows, and students.

The role is focused on managing the Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics Laboratories within the Division of Laboratory Genetics, working in conjunction with the Medical Director and Administrative Director. Responsibilities include planning, organizing, directing, and coordinating the technical operations of these laboratories, covering pre- and post-analytical functions. The position involves ensuring productivity, fiscal responsibility, and quality control of diagnostic testing. The successful candidate will develop and implement technical policies, systems, and procedures while cooperating with site medical and administrative directors to provide technical assistance.

Additional key responsibilities include developing short-term and long-range plans, establishing and monitoring laboratory methods and procedures, staffing and scheduling, maintaining test validity and accuracy, and overseeing quality control programs. The role also entails participation in proficiency surveys, continuous assessment of testing procedures, and implementation of new techniques to improve quality and efficiency. Training programs for employees, students, and residents will be directed, and technical records and reports maintained. The candidate will serve as a liaison with physicians and support staff, preparing reports regarding discrepancies or quality issues.

The position also involves developing and maintaining external contacts with educational institutions, professional organizations, and government agencies to remain current with developments, regulations, and innovations related to genetic testing. Experimental test procedures will be reviewed and recommended for improvements. Performance appraisals and staff development form part of the leadership responsibilities, alongside budget development and management for the molecular and cytogenetics laboratories. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and project management skills necessary for steering the lab operations within budget constraints and supporting the organization's mission and growth. Employment is full-time with a day shift, located in Detroit, Michigan at the DMC University Laboratories, Inc.