Associate Director - Laboratory Support

Khalifa University; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Khalifa University is seeking an Associate Director for Laboratory Support to oversee research laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with regulations and managing departmental strategies and budgets. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in laboratory management, excellent communication skills, and a strong educational background in science or engineering.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years of relevant experience.
• At least 5 years in research laboratory operations management.
• 3 years in a senior managerial position, preferably in higher education.

Responsibilities

• Oversee logistical and administrative functions for Research Core Laboratories.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and strategies.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master's Degree in Science or Engineering

Doctorate Degree (preferred)

Job description

Job Purpose:

The Associate Director for Laboratory Support oversees the logistical and administrative functions for Research Core Laboratories operations, including Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) compliance with the University’s regulations. The Associate Director is also responsible for providing technical expertise for the design and implementation of research laboratory infrastructure projects and monetizing Research Core Laboratories capabilities.

Key Roles & Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the development of the Department's strategy, as well as annual business plans.
• Contribute to the development of the Department's policies and procedures, in line with the overall business objectives of the University, ensuring they promote leading practices and excellence.
• Contribute to the development and management of the Department’s budgets and report back on a timely basis to ensure that divergences are addressed promptly.

Operational Responsibilities:

• Responsible for managing and overseeing all functional planning for physical infrastructure
• Formulate and implement short and long-term goals for the operation and improvement of research laboratories.
• Implement logistical and administrative functions for Research Core Laboratories operations, including quality control and EHS compliance.
• Develop tender contractual scope of work requirements for research laboratory infrastructure projects, including mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems, Civil and HVAC works.
• Formulate the Department’s strategy for monetizing Research Core Laboratories capabilities. This includes creating new laboratory service offerings, improving existing laboratory services, and streamlining processes to make them more efficient.
• Oversee day-to-day laboratories operations ensuring compliance with safety regulations, protocols, and best practices.
• Coordinate the allocation and utilization of laboratory resources, including equipment, materials, and personnel.
• Implement procedures for laboratory infrastructure including new laboratories, equipment maintenance, calibration and repair to ensure optimal functionality and performance.
• Establish and manage stockroom programs to increase access to commonly used consumables and parts.
• Ensure compliance with ethical standards, regulatory requirements, quality assurance standards, and laboratory accreditation criteria. Implement institutional policies governing research activities within the laboratories, including the licensing process for new research facilities, especially those specializing in sensitive research fields such as biosciences
• Facilitate collaboration and partnerships with external stakeholders
• Support interdisciplinary research efforts by promoting cross-functional collaboration and integration of diverse research disciplines through the utilization of laboratory infrastructure
• Support the identification of niche market opportunities for the use of laboratory equipment that address specific needs or gaps in emergency response, recovery, and resilience.
• Conduct market research and analysis to assess demand, competition, and potential market penetration strategies for offering niche laboratory services.
• Oversee the implementation and review of policies and procedures applicable to all physical laboratories, including equipment service and maintenance, handling and disposal of materials and supplies, and laboratory user fees and charge-back accounting.
• Contribute to the development of University-wide space planning activities,
• Interface with faculty to determine research space requirements and preferences.
• Actively lead staff, service and equipment programs that will increase usage of the laboratories and promote collaboration within the University as well as with external industrial and academic partners.
• Work closely with the Facilities Department to support effective operations, including routine support services, installation of new equipment and renovation of laboratories.
• Adhere to the University's information security and confidentiality policies and procedures, and report breaches or other security risks accordingly.
• Coordinate with other departments to facilitate the accomplishment of tasks and responsibilities related to the operations of the Research Laboratories department.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment and practice to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.
• Perform any other tasks assigned by the Line Manager.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Provide coaching, guidance and mentoring as required to enhance the internal capabilities of the team and ensure the achievement of established objectives and plans.
• Recommend appropriate training courses as per the pre-determined training needs, evaluate their effectiveness, and monitor their results.
• Carry out performance appraisals for subordinates according to planned schedules and recommend necessary actions as per the applied practices.
• Conduct periodic meetings with subordinates to ensure that priorities are clear and workflow is running smoothly.
• Follow-up on employees' administrative affairs such as vacations, leaves and other administrative and related affairs.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Master's Degree in Science or Engineering, with a Doctorate Degree award preferred.
• A minimum of five (5) years of experience in research laboratory operations management directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified, of which three (3) years should have been in a senior managerial position, preferably in higher education.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to connect and build commercial relationships in a university environment.

Required Experience:

• A minimum 12 years of relevant experience.