Meet Priestly Penda, MSc., MLS

Priestly Penda serves as the Director of Laboratory Operations at SoftCell Laboratories, where he brings a blend of technical acumen, leadership, and strategic oversight to a rapidly evolving diagnostic environment. He holds a Master of Science in Microbiology and Cell Science from the University of Florida, with a concentration in Medical Microbiology and Biochemistry, providing him with a solid foundation in molecular biology and laboratory science.

Since joining SoftCell in 2020, Priestly has led the development and execution of high-complexity molecular diagnostics, including real-time PCR and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). He is responsible for optimizing workflows, maintaining CLIA compliance, implementing robust quality management systems, and spearheading laboratory innovation. His leadership ensures efficient operations while maintaining the highest standards of analytical performance.

Priestly’s expertise is further supported by his experience and ongoing work as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Intermountain Health, a Level II Trauma Center. These roles have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of both reference and hospital laboratory operations, bridging the gap between clinical need and diagnostic execution.

As a strategic leader, Priestly excels in managing cross-functional teams, streamlining laboratory processes, and driving operational excellence. His vision and dedication to advancing laboratory services play a critical role in supporting SoftCell’s mission to deliver accurate, timely, and innovative diagnostic solutions to clinicians and patients alike.