Expert Spotlight: Dr. Jennifer Rakeman-Cagno, Senior Director, Scientific Affairs, Public Health Programs

We’re proud to spotlight Jennifer Rakeman-Cagno, Ph.D., Senior Director of Scientific Affairs and Public Health Programs. A nationally recognized microbiologist, Dr. Rakeman-Cagno has over 20 years of leadership in public health, including roles at NYC’s Department of Health, Montefiore, University of Washington, and Cepheid. She holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and is a certified Laboratory Director. Dr. Rakeman-Cagno has led responses to COVID-19, Zika, Ebola, and Legionnaires’ Disease, testified before Congress, and contributed to CDC and global health initiatives. At Cepheid, she’s helped launch key diagnostics like Xpert® Mpox and Xpert® HCV.

Dr. Rakeman-Cagno’s public health journey offers powerful insights into leadership, innovation, and resilience. We asked her what drives her, how she overcomes challenges, and what advice she has for others in science and public health.

Why did you choose to join Cepheid?

Before joining Cepheid, I led the New York City Public Health Laboratory as Assistant Commissioner and Director, overseeing emergency responses to COVID-19, Zika, Ebola, measles, and Legionnaires’ Disease, as well as routine testing across a wide range of public health threats. Our motto: saving lives, 8.5 million at a time. Transitioning to industry was initially daunting, but collaborations with Dr. Dave Persing and projects like NYC Quickie Labs—using Cepheid technology for testing—showed me that my public health mission could thrive here. At Cepheid, I now lead public health programs with many of the same partners, working to save lives.

What past educational, research, or professional experience are you most proud of?

I am very proud of the work I have done at Cepheid and in my past positions.  I have built laboratory and training programs, responded to public health emergencies, and worked on developing tests that have been part of responses that address public health issues and health inequities.  One of the things that makes me most proud is watching people that I have worked with and/or mentored over the years advance in their careers and make a difference in the world.

Why does Cepheid's work bring you professional fulfillment?

When presenting to collaborators, I always start with Cepheid’s mission: “Delivering a better way to improve patient outcomes by enabling access to PCR testing everywhere.” It perfectly aligns with my own mission to address public health needs and health inequities. I’m energized by work that strengthens preparedness, shapes policy, and ensures our daily efforts at Cepheid advance that mission.

What notable contributions have you made to Cepheid?

I’ve been fortunate to work on groundbreaking teams at Cepheid, including those that developed and launched the Xpert Mpox test—impacting outbreak response globally—and the Xpert HCV test, a key tool for U.S. HCV elimination efforts. I also collaborate closely with our Government Programs and Government Affairs teams to support funding, policy, and programs that advance Cepheid’s public health mission.

What aspects of Cepheid's culture distinguish it from other companies?

When I was considering the move from public service to industry, I had many conversations with Dr. Dave Persing, and he said something to me that I think embodies what we do at Cepheid: “doing well by doing good.”  The focus is on doing good, doing the right thing, and the business follows. 

What inspires you outside of work?

My biggest inspiration in my life is my family.  My spouse and kids inspire me to do what bit I can to make the world a better place for them. Watching my kids grow into the incredible people they have become leaves me awestruck every day.

Learn more about Dr. Rakeman-Cagno’s professional expertise on LinkedIn.