Public health laboratorians make intervention decisions based on populations, rather than individuals. Their work directly affects the health and safety of communities.
There are always new challenges to tackle in a public health lab environment. The range of activities, emergence of new diseases, developments in technology and fast pace of the job mean that no two days are alike.
A looming workforce shortage, due to leaders retiring and a lack of young professionals to replace them, creates many opportunities for new professionals to enter the field. Public health laboratories also need more staff as a result of the increased risk to health and safety from terrorism and emerging infectious diseases. APHL sponsors fellowship programs and develops resources to support young professionals entering the field of public health laboratory science.