If you’ve ever grumbled at how clunky your lab’s software feels, or wished someone who actually understands lab work designed the LIS you use every day, this one’s for you.
In today’s digital healthcare world, Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) are quietly doing the heavy lifting behind the scenes. From tracking samples to reporting results and ensuring compliance, LIS platforms keep diagnostic workflows running smoothly. But there’s one problem: there simply aren’t enough people who understand both the software and the science.
That’s where you, the laboratory professional, come in.
What is an LIS Specialist, Anyway?
An LIS Specialist is the vital bridge between the lab and IT. They:
- Implement and customize laboratory software
- Train lab staff to use LIS systems effectively
- Troubleshoot and resolve tech-lab workflow issues
- Build dashboards, reports, and data pipelines
- Ensure data security and compliance
- Translate “lab speak” to “tech speak” and vice versa
Think of it as the perfect blend of lab expertise and digital systems, solving real problems with smart solutions.
Why Lab Scientists Are Ideal for the Role
You already speak the language of diagnostics. That puts you miles ahead.
Here’s what you bring to the table:
- Workflow Mastery: You know the full journey, from sample collection to result interpretation. That knowledge is gold when configuring systems.
- Quality Control Insight: You’ve lived through the QC battles. You understand why safeguards matter.
- Regulatory Awareness: ISO, CAP, and local compliance? You know how tight the ropes are.
- End-User Empathy: You know firsthand what makes a LIS frustrating, or brilliant.
The Technical Skills Gap Isn’t That Deep
Many lab scientists assume you need to be a programmer to work in LIS. The truth? You don’t.
- Most LIS vendors train you on the job
- Basic computer literacy and curiosity go a long way
- Your lab expertise is harder to teach than technical skills
Someone I know who is a specialist said, “I had zero IT background. What made the difference was that I knew how labs functioned, and I was willing to learn.”
The Perks of Pivoting
What do LIS Specialists love most about their roles?
- Better Work-Life Balance: Standard business hours, fewer weekend shifts
- Satisfying Problem Solving: Your fixes create real impact
- Continuous Growth: You’ll always be learning new tech
- Global Mobility: LIS expertise is valued across borders
Ready to Explore This Path?
Start small:
- Volunteer for LIS-related tasks at your facility
- Take beginner courses (SQL, databases) online
- Shadow your LIS or IT team
- Explore junior roles like LIS Analyst or Implementation Specialist
- Check out LIS vendor companies, they often train from scratch
A Note to My Nigerian Colleagues… and Beyond
Now, I know this may not immediately feel relatable to all my Nigerian readers. Our local healthcare systems are still building towards fully integrated digital lab solutions, and LIS roles are still evolving here.
But I’ve recently noticed something beautiful: colleagues from outside Nigeria are reading Insights Beyond Bloodwork. From Ghana to Kenya, the UK to Canada, I see you. And I’m writing for you too.
Even for my fellow scientists still in Nigeria: please don’t dismiss this path. With the ongoing migration of professionals globally, LIS expertise is becoming more relevant. Many of you will find yourselves working in systems abroad where LIS knowledge is gold.
So yes, add this to your growing list of pivot possibilities.
Nancy.
