Manager, Media Prep

About the role....

We are looking for a dynamic and self-motivated Media Lab Manager to join our fast-growing and collaborative Product Development team to manage the media lab operations.  This role requires managing a team of research associates and media lab operations including media production, quality control and equipment. It is also a hands-on, lab-based role which requires the ability to concentrate, pay attention to details, work efficiently, troubleshoot and work independently as well as in a team environment.  The right candidate will be well-organized, flexible, and able to deliver high quality results on time. This position will be located at our West Lafayette, IN site.

As a Media Lab Manager, you will…

• Oversee the daily operations of the media laboratory to ensure smooth production and timely delivery of media to stakeholders.
• Lead a team in the preparation and delivery of plant tissue culture and bacterial culture media, according to written protocols and SOPs.
• Implement and maintain lab safety protocols, ensuring a safe and compliant work environment.
• Create and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) for media preparation.
• Implement and oversee rigorous quality control measures.
• Review Safety Data Sheets for all chemicals used in the laboratory.
• Use specialized lab automation equipment for preparation and dispensing of media.
• Coordinate with the lab operations manager to manage equipment maintenance, calibration, and any necessary repairs.
• Ensure adequate inventory of raw materials and consumables.
• Foster teamwork and collaboration within the team and hire, train, and mentor research associates.

• Manage team schedules and workload distribution.
• Conduct regular team meetings and performance reviews, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Handle and communicate deviations and corrective actions related to media production.
• Provide regular updates to senior management on lab productivity, challenges, and achievements.

You Bring...

• BS degree in biological sciences with 3-5 years of laboratory experience.
• Experience leading teams to continuously improve quality and productivity.
• Highly self-motivated and accountable work ethic.
• A bias toward action with a clear sense of ownership, and the leadership ability to empower your team to do the same.
• Experience in aseptic technique.
• Knowledge in the operation and use of general laboratory equipment such as autoclaves, pH meters, incubators, balances, etc.
• Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with sterilizing/cleaning equipment is required.
• Comfort converting reagent concentrations between molarity and grams per liter and performing dilution calculations.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs and stand for extended periods of time. 
• Project management experience, and strong organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work and collaborate in cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, dynamic team setting. Open to giving and receiving ideas, perspectives, and feedback.
• Aptitude for developing people in various roles and levels through coaching, feedback, and exposure to new experiences to meet both performance goals and personal development goals.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Adaptability and enthusiasm for new challenges, innate curiosity, and a passion for learning.

Bonus Qualifications...

• Knowledge in chemistry and/or agriculture
• Master's degree or higher.
• Experience with media preparation 
• Excellent organizational and multi-tasking skills