Laboratory Manager - Sternberg Lab

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we're unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

The lab of Dr. Sam Sternberg at Columbia University is seeking a Lab Manager to lead day-to-day operations. The Sternberg Lab is broadly interested in discovering diverse, programmable functions of non-coding RNA molecules in the cell. From guiding the site-specific insertion of DNA transposons, to targeting viral pathogens for DNA cleavage, to templating the synthesis of antiviral genes, RNAs direct remarkably complex biochemical reactions. By mining these rich areas of biology, the Sternberg Lab also pioneers the development of RNA-guided genome engineering technologies. More information about the lab and their work can be found by visiting https://www.sternberglab.org/

About the Lab Manager role:
You will hold an integral role within the lab - coordinating the day-to-day operations involved in running the lab and serving as both a collaborative partner to Dr. Sternberg and the primary liaison between the lab and various external partners (Columbia administrative offices, EH&S, HHMI science operations offices, vendors, etc.). You will have a background in the health or life sciences and be committed to fostering a respectful, thriving work environment. You are someone who works well in a constantly evolving environment, exhibits strong communication skills, can multitask, and has a desire to be a part of a robust scientific community. This role is best fit for someone who is proactive in their work style and passionate about the research that the lab is conducting.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• Joining the vibrant Columbia research community.

• Joining a close-knit, congenial lab and participating in various team-building activities, including an annual retreat.

• Full access to HHMI's on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars, led by members of our learning and organization development team.

• Partnering with an investigator that has a deep and demonstrated commitment to mentorship and professional development.

• The opportunity to work on innovative research projects and co-author publications, depending on your career interests and capabilities.

What you'll do:

• Initiate and manage orders while monitoring the lab's budget and keep track of supplies and expenditures on a daily/weekly/monthly basis.

• Serve as primary point of contact for all lab communications, including close coordination with vendors and Columbia administrative staff for service contracts, lab equipment maintenance and repairs, infrastructure needs, space allocation, etc.

• Manage new hire orientations, onboarding, and general oversight of all lab team members, including ensuring their training and compliance with all internal/external governing bodies.

• Assist with editing grants, manuscripts, proposals, presentations, and other documents. Ensure that deadlines for grant application submissions and progress reports are met.

• Manage the lab meeting schedule and assist with planning and execution of lab meetings, events, and team activities.

• Provide direct administrative support to Dr. Sternberg by helping to manage his calendar, coordinate travel, and process reimbursements, as needed.

• Supervise a lab assistant.

What you bring:

• A bachelor's degree in the health or life sciences is required. Applicants with graduate degrees are welcome and encouraged to apply.

• Background in genetics, molecular biology, structural biology, and/or biochemistry is a plus.

• Previous experience serving in a lab management and/or administrative capacity in a research environment is strongly preferred.

• Strong sense of self-motivation, integrity, trustworthiness, and demonstrated ability to work well in a diverse environment with people from a wide variety of backgrounds.

• Passion for efficiency, operational excellence, and process improvement.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, communication, and teamwork skills.

• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks according to lab needs.

• Ability to effectively supervise, train, and mentor junior members of the lab team.

• Strong knowledge of general computer use, Google Docs, and digital file organization.

Compensation Range:

Laboratory Manager I - $81,880 (minimum) - $102,400 (midpoint) - $133,055 (maximum)
Laboratory Manager II - $100,280 (minimum) - $125,300 (midpoint) - $162,955 (maximum)

Pay Type: Annual

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer