Joanie Brocato

Joanie Brocato serves as Department Head and Clinical Associate Professor of Medical Laboratory Science at the School of Allied Health Professions, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC), where she also holds the Betty Lynne Theriot Endowed Professorship. A nationally certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (ASCP) and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, she has over 30 years of experience in forensic DNA analysis, clinical laboratory management, and medical education.

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge (2008)
• Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, Louisiana State University Medical Center New Orleans (1992)

Her research centers on laboratory efficiency through Lean Six Sigma methodologies, forensic DNA analysis, and clinical laboratory science education. She has pioneered internationally recognized workflow optimization projects that reduce backlogs in forensic laboratories while developing electronic learning tools and simulators in partnership with the University of Minnesota to bridge academic-clinical gaps. Her work emphasizes technology-driven, application-based learning to prepare students for evolving laboratory practices.

Dr. Brocato has secured significant grant funding from the National Institute of Justice, Louisiana Department of Health, and American Society for Clinical Pathology for forensic DNA and Rapid DNA technology implementation research. She has expanded educational access through hybrid programs and the MLT-to-MLS pathway while serving on the FBI Rapid DNA Implementation Committee and as Co-Chair of the National Technology Validation and Implementation Collaborative Technical Validation Working Group.