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David Manthei, MD, PhD, Named Associate Clinical Pathology Director

By Lynn McCain | June 17

When Dr. David Manthei talks about his work, one theme comes up again and again: connection. Whether he is bringing together laboratory teams, mentoring residents, or collaborating with clinicians across disciplines, his focus is on strengthening relationships that ultimately improve patient care.

Named Associate Director of the Clinical Pathology Division on March 1, 2026, Manthei brings a broad perspective shaped by his many roles. He serves as Section Director of Immunology and Special Chemistry, Associate Program Director for the Pathology Residency Program, Program Director for the Chemical Pathology Fellowship Program, and Director of the Michigan Diabetes Research Center Chemistry Laboratory, in addition to his new role.

At the center of his clinical work is the integration of the immunology and special chemistry laboratories, two groups that were brought together out of necessity during departmental changes but now provides new opportunities.

“Now that these labs are co-located, we are able to think about them not as separate entities, but as a single, forward-looking operation,” he explained. Rather than simply maintaining historical structures, Manthei sees an opportunity to evaluate testing modalities and explore new technologies across both areas. That shift positions the team to move from reacting to change toward actively planning for the future.

This forward-thinking mindset extends to his work with trainees. As Associate Program Director, Manthei emphasizes practical learning experiences that go beyond didactics. Residents are encouraged to engage directly in real-world problem solving, including troubleshooting laboratory issues and responding to clinical questions. “We want trainees to understand not just how a test works in an ideal scenario, but what happens when something doesn’t make sense,” he said. “An investigational skillset is essential.”

His national involvement further reflects his commitment to quality and education. As Chair of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) Clinical Chemistry Committee, he helps oversee proficiency testing programs that support laboratories worldwide. At the same time, his work with the ASCP RISE committee focuses on evaluating and refining questions that assess incoming residents’ baseline knowledge of pathology-centric content. These roles all inform his approach to leadership within the Clinical Pathology Division. In his new position, Manthei describes himself as both a sounding board and a support system for other team members.

“A big part of this role is providing additional perspective and helping carry some of the load,” he said. “It’s about stepping in where needed and helping initiatives move forward.”

One of the initiatives he is focused on is strengthening partnerships beyond the laboratory. He believes that deeper engagement with clinical colleagues is essential to advancing patient care. “It’s easy to stay focused on what is directly in front of you,” he noted. “But when we take the time to understand what our clinical partners need, and they understand what we need, that’s where real improvement happens.”

Looking ahead, Manthei hopes to help the division move toward more intentional, long-term planning. After years shaped by large-scale transitions and the demands of the COVID-19 pandemic, he sees an opportunity to become more proactive. “I think we are at a point where we can start thinking more strategically,” he said. “How do we build a sustainable plan for maintaining our current testing while also investing in new technologies and capabilities?” That vision includes supporting the laboratory team as they grow and adapt. With recent leadership transitions within the Immunology and Special Chemistry section, Manthei is focused on helping new leadership (Supervisor Tony Sinay and Manager Andrew Szczembara) succeed and ensuring the broader team continues to evolve.

Ultimately, his leadership philosophy centers on helping others thrive. “My goals are really about supporting the people around me,” he said. “How can we help the team move forward and be successful together?”

Outside of work, that same perspective carries into his personal life. He enjoys spending time with his two daughters, encouraging them to explore their own interests and passions. And while he appreciates a good cup of coffee, he is quick to note that he is not overly particular and any cup will do.

That grounded approach reflects the way Dr. David Manthei leads: thoughtful, collaborative, and focused on creating systems and relationships that last. As he steps into his role as Associate Director, his emphasis on connection, adaptability, and forward thinking positions the Clinical Pathology Division for continued growth in a rapidly changing field.

 
clinical pathology Special Chemistry immunology faculty
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