Lab Manager

BUSINESS TITLE: Lab Manager
EMPLOYMENT GROUP: Management and Professional JOB FAMILY: Research & Facilitation
SALARY LEVEL: A

Job Summary:

The Lab Manager manages day-to-day research operations, financial and personnel activities for a single-molecule biophysics and biotechnology lab at the MSL. The incumbent will work closely with the Principal Investigator for guidance on developing and submitting research grant proposals, developing budgets and financial projections, personnel appointments, onboarding/ offboarding of new members, and general running of the laboratory.

Organizational Status

This position reports directly to the Principle Investigator, Dr. Sabrina Leslie. The Lab Manager will join a team of interdisciplinary scientists whose research focuses on pioneering tether-free, high-throughput, super-high-resolution imaging technologies for basic research on DNA/RNA/protein interactions and therapeutics. This includes daily interactions with the Principle Investigator and approximately 15 lab members (post docs, graduate and undergraduate students). The Lab Manager will serve as the lab contact within and outside the University.

Work Performed

  • Manages the research laboratory finances including budget forecasting, preparing comprehensive financial reports and statements, resolves discrepancies and directs the transfer of funds as necessary.
  • Responsible for the daily operations of the research laboratory, personnel onboarding, communicate lab safety guidelines, maintains laboratory infrastructure and supply inventories, and oversees equipment repairs.
  • Provides recommendations to the Principal Investigator with regards to research expenses, recruitment of trainees, and other related activities.
  • Identifies, develops, prepares, edits and proofs documents, including research grant applications, reporting documentation for funding agencies, student reports, manuscripts, fellowship applications, sponsored research agreements and other contracts with non-academic research collaborators.
  • Develops relationships with suppliers and negotiates equipment and supplies purchases in consultation with the PI and other senior members of the lab.
  • Identifies and implements strategies and procedures to ensure the safe operation of the research laboratory. Ensures compliance with safety regulations in the lab.
  • Coordinates meetings for research team and other project meetings.
  • Hires new trainees and staff, including writing job descriptions, interviewing, onboarding and other related tasks.
  • Facilitates reappointments for staff and students with department HR and provide feedback on staff performance for hiring and retention decisions.
  • Maintains lab websites, troubleshoots errors.
  • Develops standard operating procedures for research methodology with support from lab scientists.
  • Acts as the laboratory representative in a liaison capacity with other research laboratories, outside agencies, institutions and industrial companies.

• Carries out any other related duties as required in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of positions in this classification.

Consequence of Error

Exercises excellent judgement, responsibility and initiative in performing financial and administrative tasks. Errors in managing the laboratory financial resources could result in over-expenditure of the project grants that could compromise funding, consequently impacting the research and the credibility of the Principle Investigator. The candidate will demonstrate discretion and tact when handling sensitive information relating to trainees and staff.

Supervision Received

Works under minimum supervision and sets own priorities based on workload. Receives specific instructions only on matters which depart from established policy and procedure or has significant financial implications. Will exercise judgment in the execution of laboratory maintenance, purchasing of supplies, and in the hiring and supervision of undergraduate students.

Supervision Given

Provides guidance and direction to students, faculty and staff.

Qualifications

Undergraduate in a relevant discipline. Minimum of two years of related experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience. Preference will be given to training in the field of biotechnology, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, biophysics, physics, chemistry or biochemistry. Complementary training in management, finance, visual arts, or a communication related discipline are appreciated. Demonstrated experience with leadership or management in the form of work, extracurricular, or volunteer experience is an asset. Knowledge and experience with scientific research, research budget management, hiring, task prioritization, project management, as well as a knowledge of university systems, policies and procedures are assets.

  • Technical knowledge and training in scientific instrumentation, and applications of imaging technology to health and biological research are valuable for this position.
  • Ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail, whilst not losing focus on the big picture.
  • Ability to analyze problems, identify key information and issues, and contribute to solutions.
  • Ability to develop and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships.
  • Ability to empathize, demonstrate patience and adapt to a wide range of people.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrate initiative in determining work priorities and meet deadlines, while having flexibility and responsiveness to changing needs.

How to Apply

For details, please visit https://ubc.wd10.myworkdayjobs.com/ubcstaffjobs/job