Lab Manager

Rumi Scientific is a research-driven company leveraging a standardized human organoid platform for drug discovery. Our focus is on the discovery and validation of new therapeutic candidates for CNS disorders with large unmet needs from neurodegeneration to neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as nephrology.  Our core technology harnesses the power of pluripotent stem cells to model human development in vitro, combining accurate genetic models of human diseases together with multi-cellular self-organization on bioengineered substrates to create defined pathological tissues that serve as a basis for drug screening. We have developed an innovative analysis pipeline based on deep-learning algorithms to analyze high-throughput screening results to more rapidly identify molecules which will rescue disease phenotypes before pushing these compounds towards the clinic. Our ability to model complex human tissues in both normal and disease contexts, in a unique standardized and high throughput manner, will open new doors towards treatments for many genetic disorders that still have no cures.

We are seeking a highly motivated Lab manager to join our growing team. The successful candidate will contribute to the company effort by providing a safe, organized and functional working environment in support for the scientific research team. The ideal candidate is a capable, self-motivated, and dynamic personality. The Lab Manager will play a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of our laboratory. This individual will be responsible for maintaining lab infrastructure, managing inventory and vendors, enforcing safety protocols, and supporting scientists with logistical and technical needs. This is a hands-on, cross-functional role ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative start-up environment. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the biological sciences/bioengineering.  The applicant can adapt to the challenge of working with cutting-edge biotechnology, to quickly master independence. Teamwork is essential to our success; you should thrive in a collaborative environment. 

The key responsibilities of this position include:

1.     Maintains laboratory organized.

2.     Takes inventory of shared supplies, request supplies on Quartzy procurement platform.

3.     Organize receiving of incoming supplies.

4.     Aliquots shared supplies and reagents, prepares media for scientists & assists scientific teams on projects upon request.

5.     Manage all lab equipment, preventative maintenance, and service contracts with applicable vendors.

6.     Collaborates with the science team to address any workflow bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or opportunities for process improvements.  Attends weekly team meetings as well as weekly lab operations meetings.

7.     Training of new members in Laboratory Maintenance & Hazards (with laboratory tour, workflow, where supplies are located etc.), go over Training Modules and Training Standard Operating Procedure. 

8.     Monitor proper waste management, removal and pick-ups of hazardous waste.

9.     Ensure laboratory safety standards are followed, all licenses are up to date, create and implement high quality standards of good lab practices, help to create, and influence safety policies, and collaborate with local safety representatives- (Stericycle. C14, FDNY permits, etc).

10.  Maintain laboratory safety standards and monitor any safety issues.

11.  Develop and maintain vendor relationships in support of the Laboratory.

12.  Under emergency situations provide “on-call” support and regular 24-7 operation of laboratory to ensure appropriate response to equipment issues as needed (Refrigerators, Freezers, etc).

13.  Expands cell lines for cell banking and maintains organized cell banks by keeping Benchling updated with cell vial inventory. Performs quality control of cells by routine Microplasma Testing.

14.  Assist scientist with experiments when time allows: cell culture, PCR, qPCR, WB, experimental planning.

Experience and Required Skills:

- B.S./M.S. degree in biological sciences or related field from a top college/university.

- Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting, to meet critical deadlines.

- Experience in the functioning of a biology R&D lab (>1-2 years) and ideally stem cell research.

- Excellent organizational skills.

- Experience working in a collaborative environment.

- Willingness to learn new technologies and skills.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $60-90k/year depending on experience