Stacey Metzler
Stacey Metzler is an accomplished operations leader in clinical genomics, currently managing a multi-site genomics lab program at Phoenix Children’s. With nearly two decades of experience in high-complexity molecular diagnostics and CLIA/CAP-accredited laboratories, she has led operational expansions, validated next-generation sequencing platforms, and implemented efficient workflows that connect patients, physicians, and payers. Stacey’s expertise spans publicly traded biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies as well as mission-driven healthcare systems, giving her a comprehensive perspective on the operational, strategic, and financial demands of clinical laboratory services. In addition to her work in healthcare operations, Stacey is the Founder and CEO of MyoHope, a biotechnology startup dedicated to developing novel, non-viral gene therapies for pediatric cancer cachexia and muscle-wasting disorders. Through this venture, she is advancing intellectual property, expanding a Scientific Advisory Board, and developing early-stage regulatory and commercialization strategies with the right academic partner. Her entrepreneurial efforts reflect a unique integration of scientific knowledge, operational excellence, and business acumen, aimed at improving patient outcomes and advancing innovative therapies for children. Stacey holds board certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS[ASCP]), an MA in Psychology with a focus on industrial-organizational leadership, and is completing an MBA in Finance at Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business. She combines clinical expertise, operational leadership, and financial insight to drive measurable impact across healthcare and biotechnology. Passionate about collaboration and innovation, Stacey actively seeks opportunities to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and shape the future of precision medicine and patient-centered care.
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification
• Applied Leadership Certification
• California Clinical Laboratory Scientist
• Medical Laboratory Scientist (ASCP-MLS)
• The University of Arizona Global Campus - MA
• Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi- BS
• Arizona State University - MBA
• Eliances
• AZBio
• CancerX
• Words Alive
• Team for Kids
• Phoenix Children's Foundation
• Compassion International
• Coastal Church
• Feed My Starving Children
• YWAM
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the grace of God, support of my family, strong leadership, the meaningful professional relationships I’ve built over time, and access to knowledge and education.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that opportunity lurks where responsibility is abdicated, because stepping in where others step back is where real growth happens. Being a nice person who’s good at their job is not near enough. You need to stand out. And you do that by identifying enterprise-level gaps that are unattended and collaborate across functions to resolve. And have a solution or three for every problem you report up the chain with a plan to implement.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is not to wait until you feel fully qualified. Most of us never do, and confidence is often the result of taking thoughtful risks, not the prerequisite. Focus on planting yourself in the right environment. That does not necessarily mean searching infinitely for the perfect job or title, but aligning with a mission you believe in and surrounding yourself with people who are invested in your growth. Have the humility to ask for guidance from mentors you look up to, and the discernment to know you do not need to be everything to everyone. Consider where your skills can be leveraged, where you can continue to build capability, and where your contributions will have real impact at a systems-level.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in our field right now is aligning innovation with predictable access. Scientific advances are moving quickly, but payer models and policy frameworks often lag behind, creating uncertainty for patients and providers. The opportunity lies in better aligning reimbursement, evidence expectations, and policy with innovation so that breakthrough diagnostics and therapies can reach patients reliably and equitably. When access becomes more predictable, it not only improves patient care but also enables sustainable innovation.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are faith, stewardship, courage, and integrity.
Locations
Phoenix Children's
Chandler, AZ 85224