Research Lab/Facility Management

RESEARCH LAB/FACILITY MANAGEMENT

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): Knowledge of laboratory operations and safety procedures in the area of expertise. Advanced knowledge of laboratory and scientific principles, techniques, procedures, equipment, and terminology. Communication skills. Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, local, and university regulations and requirements, guidelines, and standard operating procedures.

Role Description

Responsible for managing operations of a laboratory or facility in support of research and/or medical activities. Competencies for this role are typically gained through specialized training.

Typical Functions:

Operations
Manages/coordinates the daily activities and operations of a laboratory/facility.
Conducts and oversees quality assurance and quality control.
Conducts compliance activities.
Schedules and oversees the use of space, resources, and lab/equipment.
Ensures compliance with proper safety procedures, protocols, and record keeping requirements; and ensures proper disposal of laboratory materials and hazardous waste.
Instructs and trains on the safe and proper use of specialized equipment and materials.
Develops standard operating procedures and safety protocols.
Supervises personnel.

Research/Laboratory
Analyzes and interprets lab/research results.
Compiles reports and contributes to publications.
Assists and consults with researchers including student researchers regarding use of specialized lab equipment, standard lab procedures, and the design and planning of experiments or laboratory sequences using specialized laboratory/facility equipment/assets.
Manages data.
Participates in other aspects of research.

Financial
Manages financial transactions including preparing and monitoring budgets.
Manages the acquisition, repair, and maintenance of highly specialized equipment.
Manages the security and access of the facility.
Develops costing structures for billable use/services.
Assists with identifying funding opportunities and drafts grant proposals.

Levels

Research Lab/Facility Management 1 Coordinates research projects and maintains records. Consults with researchers on the proper use of specialized lab equipment and resources and services provided. Coordinates daily operations of lab/facility. Implements research experiments. Education/Experience: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. May require applicable certification.

Research Lab/Facility Management 2 Manages lab/facility resources and activities. Performs diverse activities requiring analysis and judgment in alignment with broad principles, practices, and professional standards. Participates in the research process and project management. Consults with researchers on projects using specialized equipment or research/laboratory techniques. Develops lab/facility procedures and processes. Consults with supervisor when new or complex problems arise. Education/Experience: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and two years of relevant, progressively responsible experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. May require applicable certification.

Research Lab/Facility Management 3 Analyzes and interprets scientific data, identifies areas of concern, and recognizes and resolves problems using expertise in the area. Participates in long-range and strategic planning for laboratory/facility. Collaborates with researchers and makes recommendations and contributions in the area of expertise. Provides consultative and collaborative contributions to research design and methods. Operates with a high degree of independence and latitude in decisions regarding lab/facility management. Education/Experience: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and four years of relevant, progressively responsible experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. May require applicable certification.