Wayne W. Grody

Dr. Wayne W. Grody is a distinguished Professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA with appointments across multiple departments including Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Pediatrics, Human Genetics, and the Institute for Society and Genetics. He serves as director of the Molecular Diagnostic Laboratories and the Clinical Genomics Center at UCLA Medical Center, pioneering facilities for DNA-based diagnostic testing. His leadership extends to the UCLA Intercampus Medical Genetics Training Program and significant roles in national genetics organizations.

Dr. Grody's research spans molecular genetics, clinical genomics, and ethical frameworks for genetic testing. His work focuses on gene expression regulation in arginase deficiency and cancers, population genetic screening methodologies, and development of artificial mutation samples. His research bridges basic science with clinical applications, particularly in developing DNA-based tests for genetic, infectious, and neoplastic diseases. He has made significant contributions to understanding familial Mediterranean fever and other genetic disorders.

His extensive publication record demonstrates leadership in clinical genomics, with recent work emphasizing whole-genome sequencing applications, carrier screening expansion, and ethical stewardship of genomic data. His research shows consistent focus on translating genetic discoveries into clinical practice while addressing implementation challenges across diverse populations.

• Lifetime Achievement Award from the College of American Pathologists
• Ward Burdick Award for Distinguished Service
• Bowes Award Lectureship at Harvard Medical School
• Leadership Award from the Association for Molecular Pathology
• Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science
• Albert Nelson Marquis Who's Who Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Grody has directed major NIH-funded research including cystic fibrosis mutation screening and gene transfer studies. He has served on numerous national committees developing quality assurance and ethical guidelines for genetic testing with organizations including the FDA, AMA, CAP, ACMG, and NIH-DOE Human Genome Project. His expert testimony was pivotal in the Supreme Court case invalidating human gene patents. His laboratory work includes development of innovative diagnostic platforms like the Electric Field-Induced Release and Measurement (EFIRM) liquid biopsy technology.

He directs the Molecular Diagnostic Laboratories and Clinical Genomics Center at UCLA Medical Center, among the first facilities in the country to offer comprehensive DNA-based diagnostic testing. His work bridges clinical practice, research, and policy development in medical genetics, with significant contributions to professional standards and guidelines that shape the field nationally.