Laboratory Coordinator

Dalhousie University; Halifax; Hybrid; CAD 64,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

Dalhousie University’s Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Laboratory in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences seeks a Laboratory Coordinator to oversee operations, training, and safety, reporting to the Principal Investigator.

The role requires an undergraduate science degree with 5+ years of lab coordination, experience with GC, GC-MS/IRMS systems, data management, and strong communication and organizational skills. In-person work on campus in Halifax.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate science degree with a major in Earth Science, Biology, or related field plus five years of lab coordination experience.
• Hands-on experience with GC, MS, including GC-MS and GC-IRMS.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, R, and data management.

Responsibilities

• Manage sample intake and preparation; develop and update derivatization protocols; train users to perform derivatizations safely.
• Operate, maintain, and train users on GC, GC-MS, GC-IRMS systems and related equipment.
• Troubleshoot instrument issues; assist with method development and data quality control.

Skills

Microsoft Word

Excel

R

Data management

Communication

Organizational skills

Physical lift 40 kg

Education

Undergraduate degree in Science (Earth Science/biology or related)

Tools

Gas chromatographs

Mass spectrometers (GC-MS/GC-IRMS)

Derivatization methods

Job description

Research Project Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Laboratory

Department/Unit

Location

Posting Number

Posting Number S306-26

Employee Group

Employee Group Grant-Paid (PSAC Local 86001)

Position Type

Position Type Term

Duration of Contract (if applicable)

Duration of Contract (if applicable) 1 year with possibility of extension

Employment Type

Employment Type Full Time

Full-time Equivalency (FTE)

Full-time Equivalency (FTE) 1.0

Salary

$63,648 - $80,594 per annum based on 37.5 hours per week.

Classification

Provisional Statement

Dalhousie University is Atlantic Canada’s leading research-intensive university and a driver of the region’s intellectual, social and economic development. Located in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, with an Agricultural Campus in Truro/Bible Hill, Dalhousie is a truly national and international university, with more than half of our almost 21,000 students coming from outside of the province. Our 6,000 faculty and staff foster a vibrant, purpose-driven community, that celebrated 200 years of academic excellence in 2018.

Job Summary

The Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Laboratory in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences conducts research on the biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nitrogen in natural environments, specializing in compound-specific isotope analysis of amino acids and other organic molecules. Reporting to the Principal Investigator (PI), the Laboratory Coordinator will oversee the general operation of all laboratory activities, including equipment, training, and laboratory safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage sample intake and preparation. Perform organic derivatizations, and develop and update derivatization protocols. Train users to safely perform derivatizations on their own.
• Operate, maintain, and train users on gas chromatograph, mass spectrometer (GC-MS), gas chromatograph and isotope ratio mass spectrometer (GC- IRMS ) systems, and benchtop equipment (e.g. saws, centrifuges, and microbalances).
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair instrument errors and malfunctions. Initiate GC-MS and GC- IRSM method development activities. Assist the laboratory PI, students and collaborators with experiments and method development.
• Monitor GC-MS and GC- IRMS data acquisitions and perform data calibrations and data quality assurance/quality control. Provide timely updates and reporting to clients. Facilitate and engage in laboratory cross-calibration activities.
• Ensure a safe laboratory environment, including training on the safe use of equipment. Keep up to date with certifications and safety audits.
• Procure and maintain operationally ready inventories of chemicals, clean glassware, consumables, and compressed gases.

Note

The incumbent may also be requested to contribute to laboratory capacity-building efforts off-site, which will involve travel to remote northern communities in Nunatsiavut for up to three weeks at a time biannually.. Scheduling and compensation will be in accordance with the collective agreement.

This position requires handling of strong acids and solvents.

Due to operational requirements, the successful applicant is required to work in-person on campus.

Required Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Science with a major in Earth Science, Biology, or a related field plus a minimum of five years of related laboratory coordination experience (or equivalent combination of training and experience).
• Hands-on experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting gas chromatographs and mass spectrometers, including GC- IRMS systems and associated compressed gas and electrical distribution systems.
• Previous experience with trophic ecology or biogeochemistry, along with familiarity with amino acid derivatization methods, compound-specific stable isotope analysis, and quantitative research methods, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, R, and data management.
• Demonstrated initiative with excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills, including the demonstrated ability to convey complex procedures to collaborators of diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to lift up to 40 kg on a daily basis.

Assets

• Experience installing and commissioning laboratory and industrial equipment.
• Experience in sclerochronology.

The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate proficiency in Dalhousie’s core and leadership competencies, in particular:

• Self-Awareness & Professionalism
• Integrity
• Respect & Inclusion
• Knowledge & Thinking Skills
• Communication

Additional Information

Dalhousie University supports a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Our total compensation package includes a voluntary RRSP , health and dental plans, a wellness allowance, an employee and family assistance program and a tuition assistance program.

Application Consideration

Non-probationary bargaining unit employees ( PSAC Local 86001) are given priority consideration. All other applications will be considered when there is no qualified candidate from the bargaining unit.

Full-time students currently enrolled at an educational institution are not eligible for regular Grant-Paid positions.

We sincerely appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring department or People and Culture.

Diversity Statement

Dalhousie University commits to achieving inclusive excellence through continually championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. The university encourages applications from Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (especially Mi’kmaq), persons of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), and members of other racialized groups, persons with disabilities, women, persons identifying as members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and all candidates who would contribute to the diversity of our community. In accordance with our Employment Equity Policy, preference will be given in hiring processes to candidates who self-identify as members of one or more of the equity-deserving groups listed above. For more information, including details related to our Employment Equity Policy and Plan and definitions of equity-deserving groups please review our Employment Equity information.If you require any support for the purpose of accommodation, such as technical aids or alternative arrangements, please let us know of these needs and how we can be of assistance. Dalhousie University is committed to ensuring all candidates have full, fair, and equitable participation in the hiring process. Our complete Accommodation Policy can be viewed here .

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Résumé / Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Optional Documents

• Cover Letter