Brad S. Karon

Brad S. Karon, M.D., Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He currently serves as Dean of the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences (2022-present) and previously held the position of Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (2014-2020). His leadership extends to the College of American Pathologists where he serves on the Board of Governors (2020-present) and has held numerous committee positions.

Dr. Karon received his MD/PhD from the University of Minnesota Medical School in 1996 and completed his Clinical Pathology residency at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine in 1999. His undergraduate education includes a BA Summa cum laude in Chemistry with a Biology minor from the University of Minnesota (1989).

His research primarily focuses on point-of-care testing (POCT) with particular expertise in glucose monitoring, bilirubin measurement, and diagnostic test validation. He has published extensively on the accuracy and implementation of POCT devices in clinical settings, including numerous studies on glucose meters, coagulation monitoring, and SARS-CoV-2 testing. His work bridges the gap between laboratory medicine and clinical practice, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnostic testing at the point of care.

His 15 most recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on diagnostic test validation, particularly for point-of-care applications. His research spans glucose monitoring systems, SARS-CoV-2 testing methodologies, bilirubin measurement in neonates, and cardiac biomarker testing. A recurring theme is the rigorous evaluation of test performance characteristics and their clinical implications.

• 2024 Outstanding Contributions to Point-of-Care Testing Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine
• 2023 President's Honor Award College of American Pathologists
• 2022 President's Honor Award College of American Pathologists
• 2018 Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Innovation and Leadership in Education Award
• Multiple AACC Outstanding Speaker Awards (2009-2017)
• 2013 Outstanding Physician/Scientist Educator Mayo Clinic School of Health-Related Sciences

Dr. Karon has held numerous leadership positions in professional organizations including the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (formerly AACC), College of American Pathologists, and Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. He has served on advisory panels for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Food and Drug Administration, demonstrating his influence in shaping diagnostic testing standards and regulations. His educational leadership includes serving as Residency Program Director and developing curricula for pathology training programs.

As Dean of the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences, he oversees educational programs that train healthcare professionals in various laboratory and clinical disciplines. His work in medical education has been recognized with multiple awards, reflecting his commitment to developing the next generation of laboratory medicine professionals.