Lab Operations Specialist

About the role

We are seeking a Lab Operations Specialist to join our team and provide critical support for our innovative Synteins discovery initiatives. In this capacity, you will be instrumental in enhancing laboratory workflows across the disciplines of chemistry, biology, and automation, directly driving the advancement of novel therapeutic candidates. This role places you at the center of our growing scientific infrastructure, where your contributions will shape operational processes and improve research efficiency. You will own the end-to-end lifecycle of laboratory assets and workflows, ensuring seamless execution from setup to optimization. This position offers significant influence over how laboratory systems function and evolve to meet the demands of pioneering research. You will act as a key liaison between scientific researchers and technical infrastructure, facilitating a productive and innovative environment. Your work will ensure that our laboratories remain at the forefront of operational excellence, enabling our scientists to focus on breakthrough discoveries.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Partner with multidisciplinary teams of chemists, biologists, protein engineers, automation specialists, and computational scientists to uphold and elevate research standards.
• Serve as the primary contact for researchers and suppliers to guarantee that all laboratory equipment remains fully operational and readily available for critical experiments.
• Architect and supervise the maintenance, upgrades, and repair schedules for a diverse suite of laboratory instruments, including HPLC-MS systems, high-resolution mass spectrometers, peptide synthesizers, and biolayer interferometry platforms.
• Engineer and enforce waste disposal protocols to ensure strict compliance with safety and environmental regulations within the laboratory environment.
• Analyze existing laboratory procedures to identify bottlenecks and implement forward-thinking improvements through the adoption of enhanced technologies.
• Design and deploy intuitive systems that provide scientists with rapid access to essential compounds, reagents, and research materials, minimizing downtime.
• Establish and manage comprehensive processes that meticulously track the lifecycle of compounds and research samples from intake to final disposition.
• Uphold data integrity by maintaining precise digital records that support robust sample tracking and ensure long-term research reproducibility.
• Execute routine inventory audits with diligence, promptly identifying and resolving any discrepancies to maintain accurate stock levels.
• Optimize the scheduling and allocation of shared laboratory resources to maximize utilization and support team productivity.
• Implement standardized protocols for the receipt, storage, and distribution of sensitive research materials under varying conditions.
• Evaluate and recommend new laboratory equipment and technologies based on evolving research needs and operational goals.
• Liaise with cross-functional stakeholders to gather requirements and translate them into actionable operational plans.
• Provide training and guidance to laboratory personnel on new systems, equipment, and best practices for workflow optimization.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• Bring a minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience within a biotech, pharmaceutical, or academic laboratory setting.
• Demonstrate a proven track record in the maintenance of complex laboratory instruments and the oversight of daily laboratory operations.
• Show extensive familiarity with robust inventory management systems and sophisticated compound/sample tracking methodologies.
• Exhibit strong organizational abilities with an exceptional eye for detail, ensuring accuracy in all operational tasks.
• Achieve proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office applications and advanced laboratory information management systems.
• Communicate effectively with individuals from diverse scientific and technical backgrounds, fostering productive collaboration.
• Thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced research environment where adaptability and problem-solving are essential.
• Maintain a strict commitment to safety protocols and regulatory compliance within the laboratory setting.
• Apply analytical thinking to troubleshoot operational issues and implement sustainable solutions.

Nice to have

• Direct experience with the integration and implementation of automation technologies in laboratory environments.
• Comprehensive knowledge of regulatory compliance standards specific to laboratory operations and documentation.

Skills & tools

• Expertise in laboratory instrumentation maintenance
• Mastery of inventory management systems
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Practical notes

The compensation for this role ranges from $72,000 to $103,000, with variations based on the qualifications, skills, and experience of the candidate. Abiologics, Inc. provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare coverage, participation in an annual incentive program, retirement benefits, and a selection of additional perks designed to support employee well-being and professional growth. This position is based in Watertown, Massachusetts, and operates on a full-time basis.