Managing a laboratory organization requires a delicate balance of technical prowess and effective managerial abilities. While most laboratory managers excel in the technical aspects of their roles through education and experience, many find themselves lacking in the necessary managerial skills. Existing managerial training and literature often fall short, failing to address the unique challenges of laboratory management.

Recognizing this gap, the nonprofit Association of Laboratory Managers Association was established to provide a platform where technical managers can collaborate, exchange insights, and enhance their managerial acumen. Helping laboratory managers become better leaders has been the ALMA mission since it's inception.

Originally founded as the University Laboratory Managers Association (ULMA) in 1980 by Drs. Claude Luchessi (Northwestern University) and Thomas Lyttle (Tulane University), the association quickly evolved into the Analytical Laboratory Managers Association (ALMA), encompassing managers from various analytical organizations in academia, industry, and government. Over time, ALMA recognized that managers across all laboratory disciplines, including analytical, R&D, clinical, and technical services, encounter similar obstacles. Consequently, it expanded its scope to become the Association of Laboratory Managers, welcoming managers from diverse laboratory-based sectors.

ALMA offers a distinctive opportunity for both current and aspiring laboratory managers to enhance their skills through its annual conference. This event features workshops, presentations by experienced managers sharing their insights, roundtable discussions with peers from across the globe, and valuable networking opportunities. By participating in ALMA, managers can access a wealth of resources and support to effectively navigate the multifaceted challenges of laboratory management.

Although our conference is renowned for its exceptional training, learning, and networking opportunities, we also offer an active blog on our website covering pertinent topics essential to lab managers, including strategies for managing work processes and personnel effectively.

In 2024, we commemorate our 45th Annual Conference, signifying the ongoing expansion of ALMA's impact in aiding thousands of laboratory managers to enhance their leadership skills.