Lab Manager

The Lab Manager will support the Pittsburgh Water Collaboratory in efforts to conduct engaged research on regional water quality challenges with community partners, as well as internal research projects that require specific laboratory analyses. This work includes the potential to collaborate on active research projects and proposal development. As an active member of the Water Collaboratory, you will conduct, coordinate and oversee laboratory measurements of water samples, assist with engaging local groups to identify water quality challenges, develop sampling plans, and interpret/report results to the community partners. The successful candidate will mentor trainees in laboratory water quality analysis. The lab manager will ensure QA/QC of sample results and be responsible for tracking sample inventory, invoicing, customer reporting and interpretation, and data sharing to web-based platforms. Management of complicated mixes of community partner, student, and Collaboratory member needs will be required for timely completion of tasks in the continually evolving suite of research projects. Laboratories associated with Collaboratory members house instrumentation including inductively-coupled mass spectrometry, ion chromatography, gamma spectrometry, Lachat Quikchem flow injection analyzer, microplate readers, UV-vis spectrometry, and a laser water isotope analyzer. Preferred start date is early 2025, although later dates will be considered.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
*Direct laboratory analyses of environmental samples in coordination with Water Collaboratory colleagues. This includes sample analysis, data reduction, data quality control, and reporting to partners. Maintain sample tracking databases, coordinate cross-laboratory data curation, and ensure adherence to University data management policies.
*Mentor, train and supervise students and other laboratory users. Supervise sample preparation and analysis
*Oversee general laboratory operations including operation, training on, and maintenance of all laboratory equipment, collaboration with lab users, facilities staff, EH&S representatives, and other facility lab managers as required, maintaining compliance with university, state, and federal health and safety requirements.
*Track costs associated with lab analyses, manage stocks of consumables and other supplies, and oversee invoicing to specific grants, research programs or external partners for services.
*Participate in and contribute to the Pittsburgh Water Collaboratory's efforts to build academic-community partnerships to strengthen communities and advance creative solutions to water challenges.

Minimum qualifications is BS in a related discipline with 5 years relevant experience, demonstrated project management experience, experience with laboratory measurement of environmental samples, excellent communication, teamwork and customer service skills. Preferred applicants will have a Masters degree and 3 years experience or a PhD in environmental science, environmental chemistry, or related discipline. Experience in water science, an interest in mentoring, and/or postdoc experience, a track record of peer-reviewed publications in geosciences or related disciplines, demonstrated project management and supervisory experience. Knowledge and experience in managing facilities, budgets, operations, maintenance, space, and equipment in a research or teaching setting.

Directs day-to-day laboratory operations while ensuring compliance with safety regulations and best practices. Works with, adapts, and installs scientific equipment in research laboratories. Develops moderately complex projects and procedures independently. Manages inventory and equipment and performs budget functions. Collaborates to write grant applications and manuscripts.

Formulate and design studies, interpret complex data, and publish results in the peer-reviewed literature.
Attention to detail, oversight, and quality control of laboratory-produced data and reporting.
Train and supervise of undergraduate research assistants and mentor graduate and undergraduate students conducting independent research.
Experience with operating a wide variety of instrumentation. Demonstrated ability to learn to operate and manage new instrumentation.
Ability to use a LIMS or equivalent system for tracking incoming samples, sample analyses, disposition of physical sample, results QA/QC, sample reruns, and finalized data. Communication of results to internal and external customers including data interpretation when needed.
Track laboratory productivity, expenses and profits. Track and monitor inventory and review budgetary level reports for accuracy. Maintain cost-center operations including sample analyses, reporting, and invoicing for external customers. Collection and tracking of invoices.
Adherence to EH&S laboratory specifications. Maintain compliance with university, state, and federal health and safety requirements. Work closely with Collaboratory members.
Contribute to grant proposals, student and partner workshops, and other efforts

This role is designated as onsite and requires incumbents to report to work at the University of Pittsburgh. The position requires moderate standing, walking, lifting, and computer-based tasks. Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to 8 hours.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.