LABORATORY MANAGER University of Alabama, Birmingham

LABORATORY MANAGER

University of Alabama at Birmingham

The Speers Lab specializes in breast cancer research and radiation response, exploring more effective ways to utilize radiation in both in vitro and in vivo models. Under the guidance of Dr. Corey Speers, the Lab Manager is expected to work independently, design and plan research projects, oversee collaborations, supervise students, manage animal colonies using various mouse models, and carry out research activities associated with assigned projects through to completion. The Lab Manager will oversee research projects to fulfill awarded grants, focusing on radiosensitizers in breast cancer. They will be responsible for publishing manuscripts and submitting grant proposals to report on these studies. Daily responsibilities will include utilizing tissue culture techniques, managing animal breeding and rodent colonies, performing small animal surgeries, conducting xenograft injections, measuring and harvesting tumors, working with the mammary intraductal (MIND) model, conducting organ harvesting, and performing histopathology. The Lab Manager will also ensure compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety standards, train other lab personnel, and maintain research databases and budgets. The role also encompasses managing all lab orders, supply chains, and equipment maintenance. The Lab Manager will keep the Principal Investigator informed of the progress of research projects and provide recommendations on experimental design. They will also present data and findings at lab and scientific meetings, seminars, and other relevant forums, and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals. Furthermore, the role will assist in preparing research manuscripts, detailing findings, methodologies, and conclusions for publication in scientific journals.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

• Responsible for ensuring that the administrative and operational activities of a large laboratory are carried out in a cost effective and productive manner.

• Manages the fiscal activities of a unit requiring the preparation and monitoring of operating, personnel and capital equipment budgets.

• Lab managers may be found in revenue producing units requiring fiscal management and business development to effectively generate products and services as needed by UAB and/or private interests.

• Prepares and submit all necessary reports in a clear, accurate and timely manner.

• Demonstrates compliance with federal, state and accrediting agencies including maintaining any documentation these and other agencies may require.

• Coordinate the purchase and maintenance of supplies and reagents.

• Coordinate construction and renovation projects with the appropriate departments using long-range planning initiatives.

• May provide technical supervision over all laboratory personnel including selecting and training employees; subsequently assigning work schedules and conducting performance appraisals.

• Prepares operating manuals and protocol procedures to be followed by a unit taking into consideration quality improvement issues.

• Performs vendor analysis and makes recommendations for selection and procurement of equipment.

• Monitors warranty and service contracts.

• Maintain equipment configuration as needed to meet manufacturers and investigators needs.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Work Characteristics

• Experience in small animal surgery, including invasive procedures

• Familiarity with anesthesia, xenograft tumor implantation, tumor cell injection, mouse mammary fat pad engraftment, and oral/parenteral drug administration

• Proficient in tail vein injection, small animal imaging, tumor measurement and harvesting, organ harvesting, and histopathology processing and staining

• Preferred experience with mammary intraductal (MIND) model surgeries and animal handling

• Familiarity with the Chicken Chorioallantoic Membrane Assay (CAM) assay is preferred

• Previous experience as a lab manager is preferred

• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to develop findings and recommendations based on analysis

• Strong oral and written communication skills, with effective interpersonal abilities

• Demonstrated ability to communicate professionally and collaborate with individuals within and outside the University

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines

• High attention to detail, accuracy, time management, and adaptability under pressure

• Effective leadership skills, including training and collaborating with team members and staff

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team

• Highly motivated, responsible, dependable, and a self-starter

Salary Range: $52,555-$85,400

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Science or a related field and eight (8) years of related experience required.

• Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.