As a state agency under the Iowa Board of Regents, within the Health Sciences Center of The University of Iowa, the Hygienic Laboratory provides multidisciplinary analytical and diagnostic scientific services, leadership, and education to support environmental quality and public health. The Laboratory provides services for assessment, surveillance, research and development, and technology transfer in support of public policy and its development on a state, national, and international level.

The Laboratory's Statement of Mission is derived from, and consistent with, its responsibilities as specified in Sections 263.7-8, Code of Iowa. (Rules implementing this statute and governing the operation of the Laboratory are found in Chapter 681-5, Iowa Administrative Code.) The Mission of the UHL has been affirmed by the Iowa Supreme Court.