Lab Manager

Syenex • Evanston, IL

11d

About The Position

Syenex is seeking a highly motivated Lab Manager with a strong scientific background and experience in laboratory and project management to run day-to-day operations and support research and development. The role owns laboratory safety and compliance, purchasing and inventory, equipment management and maintenance, and the systems and processes that allow scientists to focus on their work. It is a hands-on position in a growing, early-stage lab, with experimental support as needed.

Requirements

• BS or MS in biology, chemistry, bioengineering, or a related life-science field.
• At least 4 years of hands-on lab experience in biotech, pharma, or academic research, including 2 or more years managing lab operations.
• Strong understanding of laboratory safety practices and regulatory requirements, including biosafety, chemical safety, and hazardous waste management.
• Experience managing purchasing, inventory, and vendor and equipment service relationships.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and resourceful, with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple responsibilities, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced, growing biotechnology environment.
• Hands-on experience with core techniques such as mammalian cell culture and molecular biology.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with viral vectors or extracellular vesicles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Evanston lab, keeping shared spaces, equipment, and workflows organized and running smoothly.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for laboratory and facility-related needs, coordinating with building management, contractors, and external vendors to resolve issues.
• Own laboratory Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), including biosafety compliance, safety training, hazardous waste management, laboratory inspections, and adherence to applicable safety regulations and institutional requirements.
• Manage laboratory equipment procurement, installation, calibration, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, and service records; coordinate with scientists and vendors to meet equipment needs and minimize downtime.
• Build and maintain lab systems, including inventory tracking, sample and cell-line management, SOPs, and onboarding training for new team members.
• Partner with scientists and leadership on lab buildout and growth planning.
• Support experimental work, such as cell culture and molecular biology, as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level