Scientific Laboratory Manager - Pediatric Child Health Research Institute (CHRI)

Classification Title:

Scientific Laboratory Manager

Classification Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience. Appropriate college course work may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Job Description:

The Scientific Laboratory Manager is a research-focused laboratory role centered on studying the microbiota of clinical and environmental samples to better understand diarrheal diseases and UTIs caused by Gram-negative bacteria. This position will use molecular and chemical analysis techniques to explore how antimicrobial factors like antibiotics, bacteriophages, and host immunity influence bacterial communities, with findings applied to diagnostics and public health interventions. Beyond benchwork, the role includes substantial lab management responsibilities such as supervising students and staff, maintaining safety compliance, managing budgets and supplies, and coordinating with the PI on grants and publications. The position also involves coordinating international clinical studies and managing associated regulatory documents, with the possibility of intermittent fieldwork in Bangladesh or Kenya.

Duties include but are not limited to:

Laboratory Research

• Processing human-derived samples containing bacterial pathogens for molecular analysis (e.g., metagenomic sequencing, qPCR) and chemical analysis (mass spectrometry).
• Research, develop, and implement new laboratory protocols to achieve the experimental goals of funded projects. Maintain and iterate developed research protocols.
• Work with the PI and external collaborators to coordinate all phases of research related to funded projects and contribute to grant protocols, progress reports, pilot studies and research publications.
• Oversee the collection of samples and data generated by all collaborators and be responsible for gathering, organizing, and storing all data related to funded projects.
• In partnership with the PI, serve as the local administrator for management of UF Environmental
  Health and Safety and UF IRB protocols and compliance activities.

Laboratory Management

• Maintenance and operation of the laboratory.
• Supervise research activities and provide training for paid and unpaid laboratory staff, including undergraduate and graduate students.
• Perform day-to-day laboratory management duties, including ordering supplies, and ensure compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements for the safe and proper functioning of the laboratory.
• Assist the PI with coordination of invoicing and purchasing activities between the departmental fiscal office and subprojects/independent contractors.
• Manage supplies and budgets to achieve the goals of funded research.

Clinical Study Management

• With close guidance and support with the PI, coordination with domestic and foreign partners to manage clinical samples and clinical data.
• This includes maintenance of associated data and documents (e.g., MTAs and data management agreements). This responsibility requires excellent communication skills across different languages and cultures.

Miscellaneous Duties as Assigned

• Performs additional responsibilities as determined by departmental needs and supervisor direction
• Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. Continuing education (e.g., on- and off-campus conferences) will be encouraged.
• Individual must be willing to handle live pathogens within a BSL2 environment.

Expected Salary:

$70,000 - $80,000; commensurate with education and experience.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience. Appropriate college course work may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree in molecular biology, microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related field and two years of experience in the field or in a related area; or a master’s degree in one of the same fields listed above or a closely related field and five years of experience in the field or in a related area; or a bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related field and seven years of experience in the field or in a related area.
• Expertise in basic molecular microbiology laboratory techniques. Must be meticulous in recording, tracking, and reporting collected data. Experience with preferred with basic methods of bacterial genetic manipulation (e.g. gene cloning and gene knockouts).
• At least five publications (at least one as first author) in indexed journals required.
• Experience with quantitative PCR, next-generation sequencing and associated bioinformatics, phage biology (lytic and lysogenic), fluorescence microscopy, and mass spectrometry.
• Passion for making the world a better place through the tools of science and medicine, especially for marginalized populations globally who are vulnerable to infectious diseases because of extreme poverty.
• Experience in animal colony management and handling of rodents (optional).

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Normal work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. Nights & weekends as needed for on-going research.

To be considered for this position, please upload your cover letter or letter of interest and resume.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required:Yes