The Panel of National Pathology Leaders(PNPL) is a non-profit “think tank” dedicated to:
Advancing innovation in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Creating practical business solutions
Developing value-based strategies
Disseminating findings through newsletters, articles, and surveys via the Members’ Reference Library
This is a part-time, paid position with flexible hours (5-10 hours per week), which may be done remotely.
The Senior Research Associate will provide support to PNPL’s staff and Panelists, who are conducting research, gathering information, and analyzing data on topics of specific relevance to the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine fields. This role focuses on applied, business-oriented research (not bench or laboratory research), with an emphasis on real-world implementation, operational performance, and financial impact.
Project/Research areas include:
Digital Pathology & AI Applications
Diagnostic Medicine (Radiology-Pathology integration)
Advancing Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Corporate Social Responsibility
Primary Responsibilities
Support and execute research projects in alignment with protocols and strategic direction established by PNPL Panelists
Contribute to project planning, scope development, and research design across a range of PNPL initiatives
Conduct comprehensive literature reviews and in-depth scans across business, operational, and industry sources (including healthcare delivery models, reimbursement, and practice management)
Perform qualitative and quantitative applied research, including interviews, surveys, and real-world case studies focused on operational, financial, and strategic decision-making
Collect, organize, analyze, and synthesize data into practical, business-oriented insights and recommendations
Draft, edit, and contribute to reports, manuscripts, and thought leadership materials
Conduct outreach to subject matter experts, industry organizations, hospital systems, and pathology groups to gather real-world operational and financial insights and best practices
Develop presentation materials—including slides, tables, and data visualizations—to support dissemination of findings
Prepare research summaries and content for publication across PNPL platforms, including web, presentations, and partner channels
Required Skills:
Demonstrated experience conducting applied (non-laboratory), business-oriented qualitative and quantitative research and analysis
Ability to synthesize complex information into clear, practical, and decision-oriented content (vs. academic publication style)
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience developing presentations and data visuals
Proficiency with data management, analysis, and visualization tools; final deliverables compatible with Microsoft Office
Excellent analytical thinking, attention to detail, and organizational skills
Ability to engage and build relationships with national experts and stakeholders
Self-directed with strong time management and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and collaboration tools such as SharePoint
Reporting Structure
The Research Associate will assist PNPL’s Panelists, President, and Executive Director, and will report to PNPL’s Technical Director: Heather Gaburo, MHS, PA(ASCP)CM, hgaburo@pathleaders.org
Required:Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences, Healthcare Management, or a related field.
Strongly preferred:Master’s degree or equivalent; strong writing and communication skills; and 5-10+ years of experience in pathology, laboratory medicine, or a related healthcare setting (e.g., Pathologists’ Assistant or similar role).
The Panel of National Pathology Leaders (PNPL) is a non-profit “think tank” dedicated to advancing innovation in pathology and laboratory medicine. Mission: To empower pathology leaders with practical, business-focused strategies, expert-led insights, and collaborative tools that drive operational excellence, financial sustainability, and organizational success in pathology and laboratory medicine.Vision: To ensure the sustainability and growth of pathology and laboratory medicine through shared intelligence, strategic collaboration, and leadership development.