Laboratory Director
: Job Details :

Help build a better and more robust infrastructure for justice.

Othram is revolutionizing cold and contemporary forensic investigations by seamlessly integrating laboratory science, innovative software, and optimized processes. Our proprietary technology empowers local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies—both in the United States and internationally—to overcome the most challenging forensic DNA barriers, solving cases once deemed unsolvable. More forensic genetic genealogy cases have been solved with Othram technology than any other method.

With a commitment to constant innovation, we learn from every case, refining our technology and processes to deliver better, faster, and more reliable results. At Othram, we don't just solve cases—we build a stronger foundation for justice.

We are looking for mission-driven individuals who share our passion for bringing certainty to investigations and delivering answers and justice to families. If you are obsessed with tackling the impossible, willing to work hard in uncharted territory, and eager to help build the next-generation infrastructure for justice—justice for everyone, everywhere—then Othram is the place for you.

About the Role

The Laboratory Director will provide scientific oversight, operational leadership, and strategic direction for Othram's laboratory. This role is crucial in ensuring the accuracy, efficiency, and innovation of our processes, particularly in relationship testing and forensic genomics. You will oversee daily lab operations, approve critical documentation, manage R&D initiatives, and maintain compliance with quality standards. Your leadership will directly influence Othram's continued success and impact in the forensic science field.

What You Get to Do Every Day

Report, SOP, and Documentation Review & Approval:

• Review and sign off on case reports, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Approve new and revised Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Sign critical documents, including validation records and compliance documentation.

Scientific Oversight:

• Make key scientific determinations on casework.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in lab processes and workflows.

Research & Development (R&D):

• Oversee R&D projects and evaluate new technologies for implementation.
• Design experiments to advance lab capabilities and align R&D with strategic goals.

Lab Oversight:

• Manage day-to-day operations, ensuring quality, efficiency, and compliance.
• Retain authority to stop or suspend operations if necessary to maintain standards.

Policy & Procedure Approval:

• Approve medical and technical policies and procedures.
• Justify and document exceptions to policies when necessary.

Review and Validation:

• Validate new or revised test methods and review results for accuracy.

Management Responsibilities:

• Oversee lab personnel, participate in annual reviews, and provide feedback.

Staffing Notifications:

• Notify AABB of staffing changes within 30 days, including director, designee, and supervisor appointments.

Supplier Management:

• Evaluate suppliers and ensure they meet requirements, taking corrective action as needed.

What You Bring to the Role

Required Competencies and Experience:

• Education:
• Doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in Medicine, Biology, Chemistry, Genetics, or Clinical Laboratory Science.
• Relationship Testing Experience:
• Minimum 2 years of training or experience in an AABB-accredited (or equivalent) relationship testing lab.
• Proficiency testing experience required.
• Advanced Competency:
• 3 years of experience in relationship testing in an AABB-accredited lab.
• Keeps lab up to FBI Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) for DNA testing labs
• Technical Skills:
• Expertise in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows, including library preparation.
• Leadership Experience:
• Proven experience in leading teams and overseeing lab operations.

Preferred Competencies and Experience:

• Industry Experience:
• Background in private-sector, production-focused, or corporate lab environments.
• Hands-On Approach:
• Willingness to actively engage in lab operations and processes.
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Ability to work with multidisciplinary teams and communicate technical information clearly.
• Start-Up and High-Volume Experience:
• Experience managing operations in start-up or high-throughput environments.
• Autonomy and Initiative:
• Ability to operate independently and take initiative in problem-solving.
• Continuous Improvement:
• Experience auditing SOPs and implementing process improvements.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Industry Leadership:
• Join a market leader in relationship testing and forensic genomics.
• Influence and Impact:
• Play a pivotal role in shaping the lab's future and staying ahead of the competition.
• Tangible Results:
• Directly see the impact of your work through real-world outcomes.
• High-Profile Role:
• Hold a visible leadership position with recognition for your contributions and expertise.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Unlimited PTO
• Opportunities for professional growth within a mission-driven organization
• Work in a collaborative and innovative environment at the forefront of forensic science

Work with the best.

At Othram, we bring together the best and brightest minds from diverse fields, united by a shared mission to build a better and more robust infrastructure for justice. Our team includes experts in forensic science, genomics, bioinformatics, software development, and investigative support, all working collaboratively to solve cases and drive innovation in the pursuit of answers and justice.

Othram is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome and celebrate individuals of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe that diversity of thought and experience drives innovation and leads to better outcomes for our mission and the communities we serve.