When life events or health issues affect your ability to work, the Integrated Disability & Absence Management (IDAM) Office is here to help. As the Lab’s confidential, centralized resource for navigating medical leave, workplace accommodations, and related benefits, the team guides employees and managers through every step of the process — from understanding time coding and wage replacement options to planning safe returns to work and implementing reasonable accommodations and more. We recently sat down with the IDAM team to get to know the people behind this important work and the unique ways they support the Lab’s mission.
Gayle Tornberg, Senior Integrated and Disability Management Analyst, has been with the Lab for 18 years.
Q. What’s your professional background, and how did it prepare you for this work?
I previously worked in Human Resources, with a speciality in Employee Benefits, before transitioning into Disability Management. My background in HR Benefits, understanding of the University of California, and the Lab’s policies and procedures have been very helpful in assisting employees with their requests for protected leaves and accommodations. I also have an active Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS) designation, which distinguishes me as an expert in the integrated leave and absence management field.
Q. Can you describe a typical day in your role?
A typical day in disability management is assisting employees with protected leaves of absence or medical accommodations, whether the need for leave is work-related or not. Some daily activities include reviewing pay options, reviewing incoming medical paperwork, monitoring return-to-work plans, and conducting interactive process meetings. I also work closely with Payroll, Benefits, Health Services, Ergonomics, UCPath, and Sedgwick, our third-party administrator for workers’ compensation claims. There are no two days that are exactly alike, but one thing is for sure, the days go by quickly as leaves & accommodation are nonstop. I love my job and the variety that each day brings.
Q. What’s one thing you wish every Lab employee knew about IDAM services?
I wish that employees knew about our comprehensive services and how we specialize in helping employees navigate through the leave, accommodations, and return to work. We’re here to help.
Q. What do you like to do outside of work?
I like to spend time with family and friends, listen to live music, play bocce, and walk with the dogs.
Elizabeth Muñoz, Senior Integrated and Disability Management Analyst, recently joined the Lab.
Q. What’s your professional background, and how did it prepare you for this work?
In my role as an Integrated Disability and Absence Management Analyst, I have the privilege of supporting employees during some of the most important moments in their lives — whether they’re recovering from an illness, caring for a loved one, or welcoming a new baby. My background in nursing has given me the empathy and insight to guide people through these challenging or joyful times, ensuring they understand their rights and feel supported every step of the way.
Q. Can you describe a typical day in your role?
In my role, no two days are the same. Each case that comes in presents unique circumstances, so my daily tasks can vary widely. I spend my time on phone calls, Zoom meetings, and responding to emails. A significant part of my day also involves sending out letters to inform employees of their request status and their rights. Sometimes I work directly with employees, and other times I coordinate with someone they’ve authorized to speak on their behalf. What I enjoy most is being able to help when things feel overwhelming or uncertain — being that support makes the work meaningful.
Q. What’s one thing you wish every Lab employee knew about IDAM services?
I wish every Lab employee knew that if they’re ever unsure about whether they qualify for leave or workplace accommodations, they don’t have to navigate it alone. A simple email to idam@lbl.gov is all it takes to start the process and get the support they may need.
Q. How does your role support the Lab’s scientific mission?
My role supports the Lab’s scientific mission by taking care of the people behind the research. When employees need a leave or workplace accommodation, I help make sure they are supported through the process so they can continue contributing to the Lab’s groundbreaking work — either now or when they’re ready to return.
Q. What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy reading — diverse books have a special place in my heart, especially Chicanx/Latinx. Journaling with a good pen is my therapy. I’m a busy soccer mom, so weekends are usually out on the fields. As a family, we love going to car shows. I enjoy getting up early, before the chaos to go on walks/hikes with my Rottie.
Salena Quan, an IDAM team Case Manager, has been with the Lab for three years.
Q. What’s your professional background, and how did it prepare you for this work?
I have a background in nursing with a specialization in Occupational Health and Workers’ Compensation. This experience has been instrumental in supporting employees with work-related injuries, as well as guiding individuals through medical leave and accommodation processes. It’s given me a strong foundation in navigating the intersection of health and workplace policies.
Q. Can you describe a typical day in your role?
My day-to-day activities align closely with Gayle’s and Elizabeth’s, as we collaborate closely within our team. This typically involves supporting employees through leave and accommodation requests, coordinating with healthcare providers, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and internal policies.
Q. What’s one thing you wish every Lab employee knew about IDAM services?
A common misconception is that using sick leave alone is sufficient when managing ongoing medical needs. Many employees aren’t initially aware that they may be eligible for protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or other leave programs. Our team provides education and guidance to help employees understand their options and navigate the process effectively.
Q. How does your role support the Lab’s scientific mission?
Our work helps ensure that employees are supported in managing their health needs, whether through reasonable accommodations or structured leave. By doing so, we help maintain a productive and inclusive work environment, enabling employees to perform at their best and contribute fully to the Lab’s mission.
Q. What do you like to do outside of work?
I like to spend time with family.
The IDAM team is ready to support you through life’s changes at work. For questions about your situation, email idam@lbl.gov. To learn more about their services and resources, visit go.lbl.gov/idam.
