What does it take to run a public health laboratory? A Ph.D. in microbiology? Years of experience working in a lab? Extensive knowledge of laboratory testing techniques? In addition to technical competence, laboratory leaders must be able to manage a budget, motivate staff, advocate for funding, organize committees, and understand legislative processes. APHL supports laboratory professionals to strengthen their leadership potential.
Leadership Programs
APHL sponsors leadership development and fellowship programs, leads an annual orientation for new public health laboratory directors, and coordinates or provides educational sessions and forums to advance careers in public health laboratory science and shape the direction of the field. Initiatives include:
Emerging Leader Program (ELP)
The ELP is a twelve-month leadership development program that offers unique training opportunities and the chance to collaborate on a project addressing pressing workforce issues.
Learn more.
Emerging Leader Alumni Network (ELAN)
ELAN members further enhance their leadership development by coordinating hot topic forums, serving as peer coaches for current emerging leaders, and promoting workforce development training and projects. Learn more.
Laboratory Leaders of Today (previously delivered as the New Laboratory Directors’ Orientation)
A hybrid delivery for new laboratory directors and assistant directors addressing critical operational issues in member laboratories. The program includes virtual sessions and in-person networking and leadership training. Additionally, laboratory leaders will have opportunities to network and build partnerships with federal agencies.
Bootcamp for Public Health Laboratory Board Exams
The Laboratory Director Board Examination Boot Camp is a multi-week virtual program designed to help jump-start the studying process for the Board Exam, which is required to direct high-complexity laboratory testing. Learn more.
Online DrPH for Public Health Laboratorians
This Doctorate of Public Health (DrPh) program provides advanced training in laboratory science and practice for those preparing for leadership roles in public health laboratory settings. This online program offered in collaboration with the University of South Florida can be completed while working and partial grant funding for tuition may be available for those accepted. Learn more or contact Dr. Jill Roberts.
Questions?
For more information, contact APHL's Leadership Program at Leadership@aphl.org.