Lab Manager and Research Scientist

Hanover, NH

This position includes responsibilities related to both Lab Management and Research. The applicant maximizes productivity of the laboratory through efficient organization and administration of day-to-day lab activities. Oversees technicians and research assistants, independently performs experiments/tests using specialized techniques, and keeps the lab running smoothly. The applicant also performs tasks related to research engineering microbes for cellulosic biofuel production.

* Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, or a related science or engineering field

* 2 years of hands-on laboratory experience (can include undergraduate research)

* Familiarity with standard microbiology techniques, including aseptic technique and strain handling

* Experience with or ability to learn biosafety and chemical safety protocols; willingness to obtain relevant safety certifications

* Basic proficiency with laboratory instrumentation and data recording

* Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

* Ability to lift and transport lab materials (e.g., biohazard waste containers, gas cylinders)

* PhD degree or 5+ years of research experience in microbiology, biochemistry, or a related field

* Demonstrated experience with molecular cloning and plasmid construction

* Experience working with anaerobic or thermophilic organisms (e.g., Clostridium, Thermoanaerobacterium) is a strong plus

* Hands-on experience with HPLC operation, maintenance, and data analysis

* Experience with batch fermentation and downstream product analysis

* Prior lab management or lab safety officer experience, including biohazard waste handling and regulatory compliance

* Experience with budget tracking, vendor management, or grant support activities

* Ability to independently troubleshoot equipment and experimental issues

* Strong communication skills and prior experience training junior lab members

Dartmouth College is an equal opportunity employer under federal law. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status. Applications are welcome from all.

Employment in this position is contingent upon consent to and successful completion of a pre-employment background check, which may include a criminal background check, reference checks, verification of work history, conduct review, and verification of any required academic credentials, licenses, and/or certifications, with results acceptable to Dartmouth College. A criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment. Background check information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

This position is funded by a grant. Continuation is based upon available funds.
Dartmouth College has a Tobacco-Free Policy. Smoking and the use of tobacco-based products (including smokeless tobacco) are prohibited in all facilities, grounds, vehicles or other areas owned, operated or occupied by Dartmouth College with no exceptions. For details, please see our policy. https://policies.dartmouth.edu/policy/tobacco-free-policy

Lab Safety Officer Tasks

* Ensures proper compliance with safety procedures

* Manage lab Bioraft site that interfaces with EHS, manage lab members, training, hood certification and lab forms for regulatory compliance

* Collect, autoclave and dispose of biohazard waste twice a week

* Collect and dispose of sharps and hazardous waste once a week

Lab Manager Tasks

* Oversees general laboratory operations and manages all activities related to proper use, availability, performance, and maintenance of the facilities, equipment, and supplies; reorders supplies on a routine basis

* Organize and manage lab email list, office space, bench space, refrigerator, freezer and -80oC freezer space.

* Organize, record and archive biweekly group meetings.

* Manage/maintain DNA sequencing software, HPLC service contracts and other equipment in the lab.

* Assist with ordering

* Help with graduate student and postdoc travel arrangement, payment, reconciliation.

* Manage and reconcile external vendor service accounts ( IDT and Azetna) and manage user access

* Manage and coordinate lab gases, primarily with Airgas

* Provide support on budgeting for supplies for grant proposal planning.

Research Tasks

* Construct plasmids

* Construct strains ( E. coli, Clostridium thermocellum, Thermoanaerobacterium saccharolyticum, etc.)

* Characterize strains by batch fermentation, followed by HPLC analysis of fermentation products

* Collect and analyze data

* Train students, technicians, and postdocs in laboratory techniques