Overview
This position supports the California Department of Public Health’s mission and strategic goals by serving as the Chief of the Data Analytics and Bioinformatics Unit. The incumbent provides high‑level scientific leadership and independent supervision over assay development, genomic research, data science, and bioinformatics activities that support the Genetic Disease Screening Program (GDSP). The role ensures scientific excellence, regulatory compliance, and innovation across laboratory operations, research initiatives, and statewide newborn screening activities.
The selected candidate leads the design, analysis, and optimization of laboratory chemistries, methodologies, and advanced analytical techniques. The position also oversees validation and quality control processes for new assays and collaborates closely with Research Scientists, GDSP follow‑up centers, universities, foundations, and other partners to advance program objectives and secure external research funding when needed.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the Data Analytics and Bioinformatics Unit, providing supervision, direction, and scientific leadership to staff.
Oversee assay development, including the design, optimization, and evaluation of new chemistries, methodologies, and laboratory techniques.
Plan and coordinate research studies; review verification, validation, and quality control data; and develop validation and quality assurance plans for new assays.
Guide staff on analytical methods, laboratory protocols, and best practices for producing scientifically sound results.
Develop tools and strategies for data processing, automation, and analysis of large and complex genomic datasets.
Apply advanced data science and machine‑learning techniques to identify, model, and visualize genomic patterns.
Conduct major research projects related to newborn screening, including testing algorithms, referral pathways, reduction initiatives, and long‑term follow‑up outcomes.
Develop statistical analysis plans (SAPs) for pilot studies, validation studies, and research initiatives.
Monitor key quality metrics such as positivity rates, allele frequencies, and performance indicators connected to newborn screening workflows.
Prepare scientific reports, summaries, and presentations for program leadership, partners, and statewide stakeholders.
Recruit, hire, onboard, and supervise State, contract, and grant‑funded staff; conduct performance evaluations; and approve leave and timekeeping.
Monitor unit workload, maintain workflow efficiency, manage priorities, and take corrective action when needed.
Provide training, mentorship, and succession‑planning opportunities to support staff development.
Ensure compliance with CAP, CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, FDA, and other applicable State and Federal regulatory requirements.
Serve as a key consultant to the Biobank Unit and Genetic Disease Laboratory on data, informatics, and research projects.
Manage newborn screening (NBS) specimen destruction requests and ensure accurate and timely processing.
Oversee Biobank research data requests, ensuring secure data handling, policy compliance, and accurate fulfillment.
Collaborate with GDSP follow‑up centers, academic partners, foundations, and external agencies on research initiatives and potential funding opportunities.
Qualifications
• Advanced knowledge of genomics, molecular biology, bioinformatics, NGS technologies, and laboratory validation practices.
• Experience supervising scientific or analytical staff in a high‑complexity laboratory or research environment.
• Expertise in data science, machine learning, and analysis of large genomic datasets.
• Strong understanding of CAP, CLIA, HIPAA, OSHA, FDA, and other regulatory frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability to design research studies, interpret complex data, and prepare scientific reports.
• Experience developing statistical analysis plans and quality control procedures.
• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills across scientific and administrative teams.
• Experience securing external funding or working with research partners (universities, foundations, health agencies).
About California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
CDPH works to protect the public's health in the Golden State and helps shape positive health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. The Department's programs and services, implemented in collaboration with local health departments and state, federal and private partners, touch the lives of every Californian and visitor to the state 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Our Shared Vision
CDPH public health professionals, researchers, scientists, doctors, nurses, and other staff members have a shared vision to protect and improve the health of all Californians. We are dedicated to public service and passionate about our work and the people and communities we serve and protect.
Diversity Statement
At CDPH, equity, diversity, and inclusion are at the core of our mission to advance the health and well-being of California’s diverse people and communities. We are genuinely and strongly committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness where we can grow and learn together with a diverse team of employees. In recruiting for team members, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring to us and the work we do.
