Lab Manager, RUO Sequencing

J. Craig Venter Institute•San Diego, CA

78d

About The Position

The Lab Manager, RUO Sequencing oversees operations within a specialized clinical research laboratory focused on non-diagnostic, RUO testing. This role ensures compliance with RUO standards, manages laboratory personnel, and coordinates workflows for sample processing, assay execution, and data integrity. The manager collaborates with research teams and project leads to support study protocols, optimize processes, and implement new technologies while maintaining rigorous quality control. Responsibilities include inventory and equipment oversight, adherence to biosafety and regulatory guidelines, and documentation aligned with RUO requirements. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills, expertise in molecular and analytical techniques, and a commitment to operational excellence in a fast-paced research environment.

Requirements

A Ph.D. in relevant field (i.e. molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics etc.) and a minimum of 5 years of research experience required.
Demonstrated experience coordinating and facilitating the transfer of new technical workflows or assays from development teams into an operational environment.
Experience in leading research development efforts that add attributes relevant to clinical sequencing operations. This can include optimizing experimental methods for larger scale deployment, establish internal and external controls for troubleshooting.
Strong knowledge of RUO compliance standards and biosafety practices.
Possesses highly specific or sophisticated skills and exhibits expert knowledge essential to the work of the laboratory, project or department.
Excellent leadership, organizational, and superior verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and optimize protocols.
Proficiency with LIMS and data management systems.
Ability to effectively supervise scientific, research and/or technical staff.
Development of area of expertise or possesses expert knowledge of scientific principle/thought.
Demonstrated development of independence and initiative in research.
Strong computer aptitude, including experience with word processing and/or spreadsheet software and/or data analysis and database software.
Excellent organization and time management skills.
Flexibility to handle a variety of tasks and shift priorities simultaneously.
Strong interpersonal skills; ability to effectively interact with all levels of staff and external contacts; ability to work as an effective team member.
Cooperative and service-oriented attitude; must be able to work under pressure and maintain a professional demeanor.
Ability to use sound judgment to effectively solve problems within the scope of the position.
High level of initiative and ability to work with minimum supervision.
High level of discretion for confidential work and information; ability to appropriately handle critical information and sensitive situations.

Responsibilities

Work closely with principal investigators, project managers, and cross-functional teams to support research objectives.
Communicate project timelines, deliverables, and updates to stakeholders.
Oversee daily laboratory operations, including sample receipt, processing, and assay execution.
Maintain compliance with RUO guidelines, biosafety standards, and internal SOPs.
Responsible for coordinating and facilitating the technical transfer of new assays from Assay Development and/or RUO into the clinical laboratory, in collaboration with the appropriate clinical counterparts.
Ensure accurate documentation and data integrity for all research activities.
Supervise and train laboratory staff, fostering a culture of safety and quality.
Assign tasks, monitor performance, and provide mentorship for professional development.
Implement and monitor quality control measures for all workflows.
Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements applicable to RUO environments.
Manage inventory of reagents, consumables, and equipment.
Coordinate preventive maintenance and calibration schedules for lab instruments.
Responsible for the integration of environmental, health and safety protocols into work activities. This includes reporting potential hazards and when necessary helping to implement solutions to ensure safety and respect for the environment.
Attends scientific meetings and trainings to keep abreast of latest scientific findings and developments.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Strictly adheres to all documented JCVI policies and procedures to include carrying out all functions required of Institute employees (i.e. completion of timesheets in an accurate and timely manner).