Manager of Laboratory Facilities and Field Research

Manager of Laboratory Facilities and Field Research

Position Summary

The Manager of Laboratory Facilities and Field Research oversees the operation, maintenance, and strategic use of laboratory facilities and field research activities across Cary Institute properties (excluding landscaped areas). This role ensures the effective functioning of analytical research resources, supports scientific staff, and coordinates field-based research to maintain high standards of quality, safety, and operational efficiency.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for laboratory services and research facilities, partnering with all scientific staff to maintain high-quality standards.
• Implement short- and long-term operational plans
• Evaluate and refine laboratory and field-use policies
• Assess facility capacity and identify opportunities for field-based research
• Manage space allocation, ensuring laboratories remain organized, clean, and safe.
• Oversee and coordinate the use and modification of shared laboratory and field research. spaces; recommend servicing, equipment upgrades, replacements, and acquisitions.
• Support laboratory transitions during scientific staff turnover and assist new hires with laboratory setup and operational needs.
• Establish and implement policies governing the use of Cary Institute properties for research, education, and resource management (excluding buildings and developed areas).
• Maintain current knowledge of analytical techniques, instrumentation, and laboratory best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and training to postdoctoral associates, research staff, and affiliated users as needed.
• Develop and maintain quality control systems to ensure data accuracy, precision, and integrity.
• Oversee systems supporting analytical equipment, including data collection, analysis, storage, and retrieval.
• Supervise the use, maintenance, and safety of shared laboratory equipment.
• Manage and coordinate all aspects of field research projects, including application review, site selection, approval process, operations, and site restoration; maintain records and produce annual reports on property use.
• Review and evaluate external and internal proposals for property use; coordinate access for outside organizations, including academic and conservation groups.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive, multi-layer GIS database of field research activities; produce maps and reports as needed.
• Coordinate environmental monitoring programs across Cary Institute properties.
• Ensure compliance with institutional safety policies and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in institutional committees related to laboratory operations and property management.
• Develop and manage budgets; approve expenditures and maintain financial and operational records for laboratories, field research, and associated systems.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related scientific discipline
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience with laboratory operations, equipment, and data systems
• Experience with GIS and data management platforms

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with research scientists in an academic, corporate, or not-for-profit institutions
• Knowledge of, and ability to oversee maintenance and training for molecular and biogeochemical laboratory equipment and processes
• Knowledge of laboratory safety standards and regulatory compliance

Required Skills

• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent analytical thinking and problem-solving ability
• Proficiency in managing laboratory and field research operations
• Advanced skills in GIS mapping and data management
• Ability to design and maintain quality control systems
• Strong organizational and project management capabilities
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a research-driven environment

Working Conditions

• Full-time, exempt, benefits-eligible position.
• Occasional additional hours required to meet operational needs