Biology Laboratory Manager
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Since 1920, Mount St. Joseph University has provided an education that is based on interdisciplinary liberal arts and professional curricula emphasizing mission, values, integrity, and social responsibility. Faculty and staff deliver high-quality academics, hands-on experiential learning, and personalized attention to support student success. Join our award-winning team, recognized as a 'Best College to Work for,' and be part of a vibrant culture that places a premium on collaboration and belonging.
Position Summary (Purpose)
This is a full-time, benefits-eligible, 9-month (Aug-May) position.
Guided by the mission of Mount St. Joseph University, the Biology Laboratory Manager supports a student-centered learning environment grounded in service, integrity, and academic excellence. This role ensures biology laboratories and related facilities are prepared, safe, and conducive to hands-on learning and discovery.
Through collaboration with faculty and mentorship of student employees, the Laboratory Manager plays an essential role in fostering experiential learning, supporting scientific inquiry, and contributing to a community that values respect, ethical responsibility, and the development of the whole person.
Why This Role Matters
At the Mount, education extends beyond the classroom. This role is central to creating meaningful laboratory experiences where students engage in discovery, build confidence, and apply knowledge in real-world ways. Your work directly contributes to a supportive and inclusive academic community where students and faculty thrive together.
Core Responsibilities
Laboratory Operations & Instructional Support
- Coordinate the daily operation and preparation of biology labs (12–20 sections per semester), supporting disciplines such as Microbiology, Genetics, Ecology, Developmental Biology, and Anatomy & Physiology.
- Prepare and organize equipment, specimens, models, and solutions to ensure a high-quality, hands-on learning experience.
- Oversee and assist with laboratory teardown and cleanup.
- Support faculty during lab sessions and assist with field experiences as appropriate.
Safety, Stewardship & Compliance
- Promote a culture of safety, responsibility, and stewardship by ensuring proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemical and biological materials in coordination with the Chemistry Lab Manager
- Maintain compliance with institutional and federal safety standards.
- Ensure laboratory spaces and equipment, including fume hoods, are maintained in safe and functional condition.
Equipment, Inventory & Resource Management
- Maintain organized, clean, and well-functioning laboratory spaces that reflect care for shared resources.
- Monitor and manage inventory of laboratory equipment, supplies, and specimens (refrigerated, frozen, and preserved).
- Operate specialized equipment, including centrifuges and an autoclave.
- Coordinate repair and upkeep of autoclave, microscopes, models, and lab equipment. Arrange for equipment certification, as needed.
- Maintain bacterial cultures used in undergraduate teaching laboratories. Prepare media for stock cultures and laboratory activities.
- Oversee greenhouse operations.
- Support the humane care and maintenance of department animals, including invertebrates and fish.
Planning & Collaboration
- Partner with faculty to anticipate laboratory needs and identify cost-effective purchasing solutions.
- Collaborate with the administrative support coordinator to order equipment and supplies.
- Support intradepartmental needs with Biology, Chemistry, and Physics faculty as part of a collaborative academic community.
Student Supervision, Mentorship & Development
- Recruit, train, supervise, and mentor student laboratory assistants, fostering responsibility, professionalism, and skill development.
- Promote safe laboratory practices among student lab workers.
- Coordinate schedules and assign meaningful work that supports both departmental needs and student growth.
- Evaluate student performance and contribute to a positive student employment experience aligned with the University’s commitment to student development.
Supervision
- Supervision Exercised: Student laboratory assistants
- Supervision Received: Works under general direction of Biology faculty; refers policy-related matters to the Department Chair. Exercises initiative and independence in daily work planning.
Primary Contacts
- Department of Biomedical and Natural Sciences chair, faculty, students, and student employees
- The dean and administrative staff of the School of Arts and Sciences
- Members of the broader University community, including Campus Facilities and Operations staff
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field required
- Master’s degree or other laboratory experience preferred
Experience & Skills
- Experience in laboratory operations or management
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
- Ability to balance multiple priorities in a dynamic academic environment
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Experience mentoring or supervising students preferred
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Computer proficiency (inventory systems, spreadsheets, etc.)
Specialized Knowledge
- Experience maintaining microbial cultures, including media preparation, is strongly preferred.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and handling of hazardous materials
- Familiarity with regulatory compliance and safety standards
- Basic troubleshooting and maintenance of laboratory equipment
Work Environment
- Biology laboratories and greenhouse
- Occasional exposure to hazardous or sensitive materials
Physical Demands
- Ability to move and transport laboratory supplies, equipment, and instruments
- Regular standing, walking, and hands-on laboratory setup
Benefits
Mount St. Joseph University offers a wide array of benefit options, to meet the financial, educational, health, and wellness needs of you and your family. Eligibility varies by position and FTE.
- Tuition Remission for you and your family.
- 403b Retirement
- Excellent benefits including medical, employer HSA contributions, dental, vision, life, parental leave.
- Generous PTO.
- 16 paid holidays.
- Competitive salaries.
- Opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative educational environment.
- Professional development opportunities.
To apply, please upload a cover letter, resume, and contact information with three professional references via Paycom.
A review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Mount St. Joseph University is an Equal Opportunity Employer
