Lab Manager and Research Scientist

Position Overview

Lab Manager and Research Scientist at Dartmouth College’s research laboratory in Hanover, NH. Responsible for managing laboratory operations, ensuring safety, and conducting research related to engineering microbes for cellulosic biofuel production. The role combines lab management duties with hands‑on research activities.

• Ensure compliance with institutional safety procedures and regulations.
• Manage the laboratory biosafety site, coordinate with EHS, and oversee lab members’ training and hood certification.
• Collect, autoclave, and dispose of biohazard waste twice a week, and sharps and hazardous waste once a week.

• Oversee general laboratory operations and manage all activities related to the use, performance, maintenance, and availability of facilities, equipment, and supplies.
• Maintain laboratory software (DNA sequencing, HPLC service contracts) and coordinate service orders.
• Organize lab email list, office and bench space, and refrigerator/freezer storage, including –80°C freezer.
• Record and archive biweekly group meetings and assist with vendor service accounts (IDT, Azetna) and user access.
• Coordinate lab gases (primarily with Airgas) and provide budget support for grant proposals.
• Assist with graduate student and postdoc travel arrangement, payment, and reconciliation.
• Maintain inventory supplies and reorder on a routine basis.

• Construct plasmids and genetic strains (E. coli, Clostridium thermocellum, Thermoanaerobacterium saccharolyticum, etc.).
• Characterize engineered strains by batch fermentation and analyze products via HPLC.
• Collect and analyze experimental data, troubleshooting equipment and experimental issues.
• Train students, technicians, and postdocs in laboratory techniques.

• Demonstrate professionalism and collegiality through respectful interactions and communications with all laboratory members.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Open until filled:
  Yes
• Onsite only; remote work not eligible.
• Driving essential function:
  Yes
• Position funded by grant; continuation depends on available funds.

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemical Engineering, or a related science or engineering field.
• 2–3 years of hands‑on laboratory experience (including undergraduate research).
• Familiarity with standard microbiology techniques, aseptic technique, and strain handling.
• Experience with biosafety and chemical safety protocols, or willingness to obtain relevant certifications.
• Basic proficiency with laboratory instrumentation and data recording.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to lift and transport lab materials (biohazard waste containers, gas cylinders).

• PhD or 5+ years of research experience in microbiology, biochemistry, or related fields.
• Experience with molecular cloning, plasmid construction, anaerobic or thermophilic organisms, HPLC operation, batch fermentation, downstream product analysis.
• Prior lab management, safety officer experience, budget tracking, vendor management, or grant support activities.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and experimental issues independently.
• Strong communication skills and 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, or certifications. The results 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, see (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..