What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Manager position at Dartmouth College?
Position Purpose
The Laboratory Manager provides operational and technical support for a research laboratory focused on evolutionary genetics and the molecular mechanisms underlying adaptation. The lab uses integrative approaches that combine organismal biology, genetics, molecular biology, and neurobiology, with a primary model system of Drosophila melanogaster.
This position plays a central role in the day-to-day management and organization of laboratory operations. The Laboratory Manager supports ongoing research projects by maintaining model organism stocks, coordinating laboratory logistics, assisting with experimental setup and sample processing, and maintaining accurate experimental records. While the position contributes to research workflows, the primary focus is on laboratory operations, organization, and technical support rather than independent research leadership.
Description
Application Notes
This role is well suited for an individual seeking hands-on experience in a research laboratory environment prior to pursuing graduate study, or for someone interested in developing a career in academic laboratory management. The position focuses on laboratory operations, technical support, and coordination of research activities rather than independent research.
This role is well suited for an individual seeking hands-on experience in a research laboratory environment prior to pursuing graduate study, or for someone interested in developing a career in academic laboratory management. The position focuses on laboratory operations, technical support, and coordination of research activities rather than independent research.
Weekend shifts may occasionally be required to maintain organism stocks and ongoing experiments. Scheduling will be coordinated with the Principal Investigator.
Required Qualifications - Education and Yrs Exp
Bachelors or equivalent combination of education and experience
Required Qualifications - Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related life sciences field.
- Prior laboratory experience.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain accurate records.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated reliability, accountability, and attention to laboratory protocols.
Working Conditions
- Laboratory environment with standard biological research materials and equipment.
- Occasional weekend shifts required for organism care and experimental maintenance; schedule arranged with the Principal Investigator.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with Drosophila melanogaster or other model organisms.
- Experience with molecular genetics or genomics techniques.
- Familiarity with R or other data analysis tools.
- Previous research experience in an academic laboratory environment.
Department Contact for Recruitment Inquiries
Emily Behrman
Department Contact Phone Number
Emily@Dartmouth.edu
Department Contact for Cover Letter and Title
Emily Behrman, Principal Investigator
Department Contact's Phone Number
Emily@Dartmouth.edu
Equal Opportunity Employer
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.
Background Check
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.
Is driving a vehicle (e.g. Dartmouth vehicle or off road vehicle, rental car, personal car) an essential function of this job?
Not an essential function
Special Instructions to Applicants
This position is a 12-month term position.
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
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
Additional Instructions
Key Accountabilities
Description
Laboratory Operations and Maintenance
- Maintain Drosophila melanogaster fly stocks, including routine husbandry, stock maintenance, and genetic crosses.
- Screen and validate transgenic lines and maintain organized genetic stock collections.
- Manage laboratory inventory, including ordering supplies, tracking stock levels, and maintaining organized storage systems.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and coordinate routine maintenance.
- Ensure compliance with laboratory safety procedures and institutional policies.
- Support general laboratory organization and daily operational needs.
Percentage Of Time
40%
Description
Experimental Setup and Data Collection Support
- Assist with preparation and setup of experiments under the guidance of the Principal Investigator or research staff.
- Collect experimental samples and assist with processing biological specimens.
- Assist with data collection and entry related to ongoing experiments.
- Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records and laboratory documentation.
- Support basic data organization when needed.
Percentage Of Time
30%
Description
Administrative and Research Support
- Maintain organized digital and physical laboratory records.
- Assist with reconciling laboratory expenses and submitting receipts and purchasing documentation.
- Coordinate laboratory logistics, including supply ordering and vendor communication.
- Assist in organizing laboratory materials and documentation related to research projects.
- Provide coordination or guidance to laboratory technicians or student assistants as needed.
Percentage Of Time
30%
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Demonstrates professionalism and collegiality through actions, interactions, and communications with others appropriate to an environment that is welcoming to all.
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Performs other duties as assigned.