Get to Know Jim Lu, MD, PhD

Jim Lu, MD, PhD
Founder, CEO, and Medical Director of GoPath Diagnostics
                                                                                                    Buffalo Grove, IL                                                                                                   

What is your current role?
I am the Founder, CEO, and Medical Director of GoPath Diagnostics, a full-service cancer genetics, molecular, and anatomic pathology, and Digital Diagnostic company. 

What is the best part of your occupation?
The best is making a direct impact on patient care by providing accurate and advanced diagnostic solutions with cutting-edge molecular and digital technology to offer more personalized treatment options, helping clinicians make informed decisions that ultimately improve patient outcomes.

How did you become interested in pathology?
During my medical training, I was drawn to the investigative nature of pathology—how a single biopsy or molecular test can unlock critical information about a patient’s health. My particular interest in gastrointestinal and liver pathology grew during my residency and fellowship, where I saw firsthand how advanced diagnostics could significantly improve disease management.

How did you become involved with the FSP?
I became involved with the FSP because it stood out as one of the few state pathology societies truly leading the way in promoting innovation, collaboration, and professional development. I was impressed by how well the society facilitates high-quality meetings that not only keep members informed of the latest developments but also foster meaningful dialogue across subspecialties. FSP has become a vital platform for staying current in pathology and contributing to discussions that shape the future of our field.

Explain how you benefit from being a member of FSP?
As a pathologist and entrepreneur, being a member of FSP allows me to engage with a network of pathologists who are dedicated to excellence in patient care. It provides opportunities for professional and business growth, collaboration, and staying informed about the latest advancements in pathology and molecular diagnostics.

What would you like to see occur in the field of pathology (i.e., scientific advances, greater awareness of the field, etc.) during your career?
 I would love to see greater integration of artificial intelligence, molecular, and digital pathology into routine diagnostics—not only to improve accuracy and efficiency, but also to streamline workflow across the pathology lab. Enhancing automation and interoperability can significantly reduce turnaround times and administrative burden, allowing pathologists to focus more on clinical insights. I also believe expanding the role of molecular testing in early cancer detection and personalized treatment will be key to improving outcomes. Just as important is increasing awareness of pathology’s central role in patient care within the broader medical community.

What are your hobbies outside of the office?
Outside of work, I enjoy fishing, playing the occasional round of golf, and going on forest preserve adventures with my kids. Spending quality time with my loved ones is very important to me, whether it’s exploring nature, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying each other’s company.

What is something surprising that most people do not know about you?
Many people might not know that I originally considered a career in engineering before pursuing medicine. The analytical and problem-solving skills from that field have greatly influenced my approach to pathology and diagnostics. The fact that I am deeply involved in the creation of our LIS system, I surprise myself the new passion I recognized I have in this area. They are skills that surprise me to this day. 

Is there anything I did not ask that you would like me to mention in the article?
I would like to emphasize the importance of collaboration between pathologists and clinicians in delivering the best patient care. At GoPath Diagnostics, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in diagnostics, and I am always open to discussions on how we can continue improving pathology as a field.