About Peter Hu

What gaps in technology/training/processes concern you most, and how are you addressing them via innovation?

As an internationally recognised leader in diagnostic molecular pathology, cytogenetics, and workforce development, I have focused my career on improving how molecular diagnostics are taught, regulated, and sustained worldwide. I am Associate Dean for Research and Strategic Initiatives and a tenured professor at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center School of Health Professions, where I direct programs in Molecular Genetic Technology and Diagnostic Genetics and Genomics.

Over two decades, I have developed and modernised a comprehensive molecular diagnostics education pathway to help address critical laboratory workforce shortages. I have trained more than 400 undergraduate molecular genetic technologists and nearly 100 graduate-level diagnostic genetics professionals, maintaining a first-attempt board certification pass rate above 96 percent over 20 years. These graduates now contribute to clinical care in precision oncology, genomics, and infectious disease testing.

My work also extends to international accreditation and workforce development. Through leadership roles with NAACLS, ASCP, IFBLS, and the Association of Genetic Technologists (AGT), I have contributed to accreditation standards and certification frameworks for molecular diagnostics. I have served as president of three professional organisations – AGT, ACS, and NAACLS – and chaired international accreditation initiatives that influence how molecular diagnostic education and practice are assessed.

Innovation is central to my educational approach. I developed scalable online post-baccalaureate certificate programs, integrated next-generation sequencing into clinical curricula, and created hybrid “lab-in-a-box” modules to help maintain diagnostic training during global disruptions.

My research connects scientific discovery with clinical implementation, while my international work has supported the establishment of cytogenetics programs in Cuba, Africa, and the Middle East. Together, these efforts reflect my commitment to advancing pathology while developing the systems and workforce needed to sustain molecular diagnostics worldwide.