Platform Lead, Omics & Precision Analytics Laboratory (OPAL)

University of Saskatchewan; Saskatoon; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Saskatchewan seeks a Platform Lead for their Omics & Precision Analytics Laboratory (OPAL) to innovate in genomics and lead research services. The role requires strategic leadership and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure alignment with the mission of enhancing global food security.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience managing operations in a life sciences laboratory.
• Experience in project management and innovation projects in ag biotech.
• Leadership experience with team development.

Responsibilities

• Lead the OPAL Platform by developing genomics approaches for client-focused services.
• Establish relationships with researchers and stakeholders.
• Manage employee career development activities and oversee the full employee lifecycle.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Education

PhD or Master’s in plant sciences, animal sciences, health, genetics, biochemistry, or genomics

Job description

Platform Lead, Omics & Precision Analytics Laboratory (OPAL)

The Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) is a rapidly expanding Institute based at the University of Saskatchewan. Our Vision is a world where everyone has access to safe and nutritious food. We are committed to investing in our talent to achieve this bold vision. In line with our Mission, we work with employees, partners, and stakeholders to discover, develop, and deliver innovative solutions for sustainable global food production.

Our Values are: Innovation, Excellence, Collaboration, Integrity, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

PRIMARY PURPOSE

GIFS’ OPAL Platform specializes in high-throughput genotyping and sequencing (short-read and long-read) experiments to drive research and innovation through collaborations and service offerings. The Platform Lead plays a critical role in advancing sustainable food security by leading the design, execution, and strategic development of the OPAL Platform, transforming technical capabilities into value for stakeholders and strengthening partnerships.

NATURE OF WORK

Reporting to the Chief Scientific Officer, you will lead the OPAL Platform by developing innovative genomics approaches for client-focused services. You will be a strategic, visionary leader thriving in an entrepreneurial environment, helping to position GIFS as a global leader in food security.

Your responsibilities include establishing and maintaining relationships with researchers, collaborators, stakeholders (government and industry), communities, external clients, and end-users to ensure the platform aligns with GIFS’ strategy and research impact goals. You will develop and grow the team, oversee the full employee lifecycle, and present to senior leadership and external audiences.

You must understand GIFS’ interconnected operations and their impact on reputation and success. Key traits include a commitment to safety, change management, team leadership, organizational and project management skills, and effective communication. Agility and focus are essential for meeting milestones and outcomes.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Establish and optimize automated, high-throughput workflows for sequencing and genotyping.
• Implement and maintain Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and integrate with CRM systems as needed.
• Analyze performance data to support quality control and process improvements.
• Manage programs and systems to deliver excellent customer service to internal and external clients.
• Oversee employee career development activities, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and training.
• Collaborate with Business Lead to promote research services and innovation through grants, conferences, and industry engagement.
• Promote services nationally and internationally, representing GIFS within the bioscience community.
• Lead by example, fostering a culture of continuous improvement aligned with GIFS values.
• Monitor service agreements and understand operational costs, including equipment and technical needs.
• Support funding opportunities and grant development with technical expertise.
• Facilitate communication among the OPAL team, GIFS, clients, and stakeholders.
• Identify and develop strategic partnerships for long-term collaboration.
• Encourage innovation within the platform to keep GIFS at the forefront of the field.
• Participate in scientific and leadership teams to shape the institute's strategic direction.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD or Master’s in relevant fields such as plant sciences, animal sciences, health, genetics, biochemistry, or genomics.
• At least 10 years of experience managing operations in a life sciences laboratory, preferably industrial.
• Experience with project management, quality systems, product development, and innovation projects, especially in ag biotech.
• Proficiency with current sequencing technologies.
• Leadership experience with team development.
• Knowledge of research funding processes and models.
• Business development or marketing experience in academic and industry settings is highly desirable.
• Ability to build relationships and negotiate agreements.
• Experience in translating invention into market-impacting innovations.

SKILLS

• Proven leadership and problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills for diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and multitasking ability.
• Discretion, professionalism, and sound judgment.
• Interpersonal skills for collaboration and relationship building.
• Attention to detail in data analysis and presentation.
• Ability to work effectively in diverse environments.

Status: Permanent, Full-time, Salary Band 10. Posted: 6/3/2025. Closes: 7/14/2025. Location: On Campus.

The University values diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially supporting Indigenous peoples' careers. Candidates asserting Indigenous membership/citizenship will undergo verification. The campus is on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis, and we acknowledge and respect this heritage.