Director Laboratory Operations in Skiniotis Lab

The Skiniotis laboratory seeks to elucidate the structural and mechanistic principles governing signal recognition and propagation by cell-surface receptors, with a particular focus on G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs). The Director of Laboratory Operations will partner closely with Dr. Skiniotis to translate the laboratory’s scientific goals into effective research strategies and day-to-day operations. Responsibilities will include directing and developing laboratory staff; recommending experimental approaches; evaluating results and troubleshooting research workflows; and leading the implementation of new technologies, instrumentation, and procedures. The Director will also oversee laboratory policies, safety and regulatory compliance, budget and resource management, equipment maintenance, and the procurement of research supplies. Through this combination of scientific and operational leadership, the Director will promote a collaborative, rigorous, and highly efficient research environment.

The World’s Brightest Minds Always Innovate

At St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, we know what can be achieved when the brightest scientific minds face the fewest barriers. That’s why we provide world-class facilities. State-of-the-art technologies. Extraordinary support. And a collaborative, bench-to-bedside environment where you can see, firsthand, how your science translates into survival for the children we serve. Quite simply, at St. Jude, we encourage you to dream big and stop at nothing when it comes to finding cures and saving children.

Job Responsibilities: 

• Oversees laboratory research. Works closely with the Principal Investigator to develop and direct the activities within the laboratory. Interfaces with research staff within the laboratory, providing direct supervision to staff as required. 
• Provides direction and supervision to laboratory staff. 
• Develops laboratory policies and standard operating procedures to support efficient operations. Continually evaluates laboratory operations and workflow to identify inefficiencies and develops corrective action. Develops quality control processes and procedures. 
• Manages capital purchasing and budgeting objectives. Develops mechanisms for monitoring expenses. Reviews and approves purchasing requests. 
• Oversees the design, construction, equipping of laboratories. Oversees preventative maintenance and repair to ensure safe and efficient operation. Orders new and replacement equipment. Monitors and maintains inventory of supplies. 
• Develops compliance and safety policies and procedures. Investigates and resolves non-compliance issues. 
• Evaluates test results. Evaluates, recommends, and implements new procedures, reagents, and instruments. 
• Performs other related duties as assigned in order to meet the goals and objectives of the department and institution. 

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant scientific discipline is required.

Minimum Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in relevant technical field (industry or academia) is required.
• 8+ years of experience in relevant technical field is required with a Master’s degree.
• 5+ years of experience in relevant technical field is required with a PHD.
• Significant experience in a research functional area with experience managing mid-large teams in a leadership capacity with focus on both achievement of objectives as well as critical skill-building preferred.
• Experience having led large-scale projects/processes through to implementation preferred.
• Experience with operational mgmt., budget planning, & stakeholder and resource management preferred.
• Prior experience in building external connections with peers, emerging technology communities, and expert networks preferred.
• Experience driving research objectives across area through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders preferred.
• Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer