Research Lab Manager

Harvard University; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement plans with contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

A prestigious university in Boston is seeking a Research Laboratory Manager to oversee the daily operations of a large neurobiology research lab. The successful candidate will have a college degree, 3+ years of experience, and strong problem-solving skills. Responsibilities include managing laboratory workflow, ensuring safety compliance, and assisting with experiments. This position offers a structured workweek, competitive benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• 3 or more years of related work experience.
• Strong innovative and creative problem‑solving skills.
• Independent individual capable of working well in fast‑paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Direct day-to-day operations of a large research laboratory.
• Liaise between principal investigator and lab members.
• Maximize efficiency of laboratory workflow.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Leadership abilities

Attention to detail

Ability to work independently

Education

College degree in a related field

Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) preferred

Job description

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard Medical School?

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well-being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.

You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world‑renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

Job Description

The Research Laboratory Manager directs the day-to-day operations of a large research laboratory with over 25 people, internationally recognized for neurobiology research. This position requires a responsible, diligent, conscientious and detail‑oriented individual with proven managerial and leadership experience. The manager should be a quick, resourceful and independent learner who enjoys interacting with people and finding creative solutions to projects and issues as they arise, and who can remain flexible when organizing their day and managing multiple priorities.

Responsibilities include serving as a liaison between the principal investigator, school-based compliance departments, and lab members; facilitating the research goals of the investigators; fostering a seamless operational environment; handling the onboarding and off‑boarding of lab members; ensuring compliance with university training and safety regulations; managing lab member support and evaluation; assisting directly with experiments such as genotyping, behavioral assays, immunostaining, stereotaxic injections, mouse surgery, odor exposure for molecular analysis, and single‑cell sequencing.

In addition, the manager will maximize efficiency and effectiveness of laboratory workflow; write and maintain animal protocols in compliance with federal guidelines; coordinate with animal facilities and veterinary staff; place and track supplies, inventory, and service contracts using HCOM; maintain precise budget tracking; communicate spending with the principal investigator; negotiate vendor discounts; and collaborate with the grants manager on billing and forecasting to control costs.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• College degree in a related field of research study.
• 3 or more years of related work experience (relevant coursework may count toward experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) strongly preferred.
• Strong innovative and creative problem‑solving skills.
• Strong leadership abilities, friendly yet authoritative.
• Independent individual capable of working well in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented, ever‑changing environment.
• Proactively seeks ways to improve lab efficiency in space, spend and workflow.

Employment Details

• Term: One‑year term with potential extension dependent on performance and funding.
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm.
• Work Location: All duties must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard‑designated location; visa restrictions may apply.

Salary

This position is salary grade level 055. The corresponding salary range can be viewed in Harvard's salary ranges.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting on day one.
• Retirement plans with university contributions.
• Well‑being and mental health resources.
• Support for families and caregivers.
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement.
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks.

EEO/Non‑Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic. Harvard's equal employment opportunity and non‑discrimination policies help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.