Lab Manager – Diagnostics & Laboratory Operations

Role Overview We're looking for a Lab Manager to lead daily laboratory operations at Dognosis's diagnostic facility. This role is central to ensuring our lab runs efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards - supporting the development and validation of our canine olfactory diagnostic platform. You'll manage equipment, coordinate across teams, uphold regulatory compliance, and drive continuous improvement in lab workflows.

Key

Responsibilities Lab Operations & Administration Oversee day-to-day lab operations, including scheduling, workflow coordination, and resource allocation Maintain lab cleanliness, organisation, and compliance with biosafety and GLP standards Manage procurement of consumables, reagents, and supplies - track usage, avoid stockouts, and negotiate with vendors Coordinate with facilities/admin for infrastructure needs (power, HVAC, plumbing, waste disposal) Equipment & Infrastructure Management Own the lab equipment lifecycle: procurement, installation, calibration, maintenance, and decommissioning Maintain service contracts, AMC schedules, and calibration logs Troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate with service engineers for timely resolution Ensure all instruments are validated and fit-for-purpose before use in experiments Quality Systems & Compliance Implement and maintain quality management systems aligned with ISO 17025 / GLP / internal SOPs Manage document control - SOPs, work instructions, forms, and change logs Support internal and external audits; track CAPAs and non-conformances Ensure lab personnel training records are current and aligned with competency requirements Sample & Inventory Management Oversee sample receipt, accessioning, storage, and chain-of-custody documentation Maintain inventory systems for reagents, consumables, and biological samples Ensure proper labelling, traceability, and disposal protocols are followed Team Coordination Coordinate lab technicians and support staff - assign tasks, manage shifts, and ensure coverage Act as the primary point of contact between the lab team and R&D / product / operations teams Facilitate onboarding and training of new lab personnel Process Improvement Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in lab workflows; propose and implement improvements Track key lab metrics (turnaround time, equipment uptime, sample throughput) and report regularly Evaluate and introduce new tools, technologies, or methods to improve lab productivity

Qualifications Required: M.Sc. or B.Sc. in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or related field 5+ years of experience in lab operations or lab management Hands-on experience with lab equipment maintenance, calibration, and procurement Strong understanding of quality systems (ISO 17025, GLP, or equivalent) Excellent organisational and communication skills Preferred: Experience in an ISO-regulated or GLP-compliant lab environment Familiarity with LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) Experience managing lab budgets and vendor relationships Background in diagnostics, veterinary science, or biotech startups What We're Looking For Someone who takes ownership, thinks in systems, and cares deeply about doing things right. You're not just maintaining a lab - you're building the operational backbone of a diagnostic platform that could change how diseases are detected. What You'll Get A front-row seat in building a first-of-its-kind diagnostic platform A collaborative, no-ego team that values initiative and problem-solving Opportunity to shape lab operations from the ground up Competitive compensation and growth opportunities in a fast-moving startup