The Lab Director will be responsible to help establish an in-house new born screening laboratory in Dubai.
Ensure adherence to national and international standards such (DHA, DOH, MOH, CAP and ISO.
Achieve and maintain CAP and ISO accreditation to the lab.
Implement quality assurance programs to maintain the accuracy and reliability of newborn screening tests.
Lead the development and updating of laboratory policies, protocols, and workflows.
Coordinate with local health authorities for inspections, audits, and reporting of lab performance.
Provide medical leadership and direction for the lab's operations, including Equipment and kits selection and
evaluation, Test menu selection, Test method validation and interpretation of results. * Ensure timely processing of samples and delivery of test results, while maintaining accuracy and reliability ofresults. * Oversee the clinical validity, diagnostic value and public health interest of tests.
Stay updated on the latest technological advancements in newborn screening and introduce relevant
innovations to the lab to ensure that the lab stays at the forefront of newborn screening advancements * Serve as the main point of contact between the lab and healthcare professionals, public health departments,and parents, when necessary. * Ensure the proper follow-up of abnormal test results, including communication with referring clinicians andcoordination of confirmatory testing or treatment initiation. * Ensure effective communication process of critical findings to the clinicians and ordering facilities is in place.
Collaborate with clinicians, paediatricians, geneticists, and specialists for confirmatory diagnosis and
treatment planning. * Provide technical and medical support to commercial team in accordance with Run, Ignite and Grow model.
Collaborate with public health entities to track and report newborn screening outcomes.
Collaborate with local and international universities and health authorities through the available MOUs to
promote research and collaborate on pilot studies or new screening methods. * Oversee the development of training programs for new staff.
Provide continuous education to laboratory staff, clinicians, and healthcare providers on newborn screening
practices. * Manage hiring, training, and supervision of lab technicians, scientists, and administrative staff.
Oversee the proper management and confidentiality of patient data and laboratory results.
Growth opportunity Leadership role
A PhD in Clinical Pathology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field is commonly required.
Alternatively, a medical degree (MD) with specialization in genetics, pediatrics, or pathology is also a possibility.
A Master's degree in Medical Genetics, Clinical Laboratory Science, or related field could be acceptable if the individual has extensive experience in the field.
Certification from a recognized medical board or clinical laboratory accrediting body (e.g., ABMGG - American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics) may be required.
Extensive experience working in a newborn screening laboratory, with proficiency in screening tests such as tandem mass spectrometry, DNA analysis, and biochemical assays.
Experience in the use of laboratory instrumentation and data management systems specific to newborn screening
programs.
Several years of experience in a supervisory or leadership position within a laboratory, managing staff, budgets, operations, and ensuring compliance with quality control measures.
Proven track record of working within multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with pediatricians, geneticists, and other
healthcare providers.
Experience working directly with clinical cases and understanding the medical implications of various disorders detected through newborn screening.
In-depth knowledge of the various conditions included in newborn screening programs (e.g., metabolic disorders,
congenital hypothyroidism, cystic fibrosis).
Strong background in maintaining high standards of laboratory quality, ensuring adherence to best practices and
national/international guidelines.
Knowledge of relevant laboratory regulations (e.g., CLIA, CAP, JCI) and standards for newborn screening programs.
Ability to oversee and resolve complex issues related to screening procedures, test interpretation, and patient outcomes.
Effective communication with healthcare providers, families, and public health authorities. Ability to clearly explain test results, ensure follow-up, and support clinical decision-making.
Keeping up to date with advancements in genetic testing, screening methods, and treatment protocols for newborn
conditions.
Depending on the country, specific certifications may be required for overseeing newborn screening programs (e.g.,
ABMGG certification in medical genetics).
Certification in laboratory management and quality assurance may also be beneficial.
Deep knowledge of laboratory procedures, particularly in newborn screening tests (e.g., tandem mass spectrometry,
genetic testing, biochemical assays).
Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation and data management systems used in newborn screening.
Proficient in developing and maintaining strict quality control procedures to ensure accurate, reliable, and consistent test results.
Strong problem-solving skills to address issues related to testing, laboratory processes, or patient outcomes in a timely and effective manner.
Out client is a multinational laboratory organization.