Associate Director, Chemistry Lab Operations

Indianapolis, IN

We are the Indiana Biosciences Research Institute (IBRI). We are a leading translational research institute that advances academic and industry science through collaboration to improve patient health outcomes. Building your career at the IBRI in Indianapolis’ 16Tech Innovation District, means being part of a team of renowned scientists, creative thinkers, and innovative leaders.

Today’s research is being driven by significant advances in our abilities to study complex disease processes and propose new ways to improve patients’ lives. To reflect the evolving nature of life sciences research and encourage synergies through collaboration, we are enhancing our integrated capabilities, adding depth to how we approach patient-informed translational science and pursuing four foundational areas of scientific focus. These four areas will provide us the core talent and capability to pursue translational science in this new patient-centric framework:

  • Disease, Systems, Pathways – We are working to better understand diabetes and identify new ways to combat the disease. We are applying this learning to other diseases that share common systems and pathways.
  • Molecular Innovation – We are developing new capabilities for molecular design and drug discovery to investigate disease processes and pursue new therapeutic approaches.
  • Integrated Data Sciences – We are pursuing advanced data sciences to create novel end-user inspired solutions that address complex analysis, simulation, and prediction across the translational sciences.
  • Enabling Technologies – We are building a rich platform of enabling technologies that give our scientists, partners, and collaborators access to the best tools to solve complex scientific problems.

The IBRI’s vision is to build a world-class organization of researchers, innovators and business professionals that catalyze activities across the Indiana (and beyond) life sciences community. To achieve that vision, we look for curious and collaborative team members who are energized by innovation, guided by integrity, and inspired by diversity.

The Opportunity:

The IBRI is seeking an experienced and motivated Associate Director of Chemistry Lab Operations who will lead and manage the chemistry laboratory's day-to-day operations and assist in the biology labs with safety and equipment operations. This role is crucial in ensuring the laboratory operates efficiently, maintains high-quality standards, supports research and development initiatives, and adheres to all safety and compliance regulations. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, technical expertise in chemistry, and a deep commitment to fostering a culture of safety and innovation. This role reports to the Natalie Stull, the Sr. Director of Lab Operations & Facilities.

Responsibilities:

  • Oversee the daily operations of the chemistry lab, ensuring efficient workflow and optimal productivity.
  • Develop and implement laboratory protocols, standard operating procedures, and best practices to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
  • Manage walk-up equipment and data management.
  • Safety Compliance, oversee solvent disposal and tracking, must take waste management training with Heritage Environmental Services.
  • Own the chemical inventory management system.
  • Run samples for the chemists with some method development, run calibration for most equipment.
  • Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, safety standards, and quality control measures.
  • Monitor laboratory inventory and equipment, coordinating maintenance, repair, service contracts, and purchasing of supplies and instruments in both chemistry and biology labs.
  • Analyze laboratory data, prepare technical reports, and present findings to stakeholders as required.
  • Collaborate with R&D teams to support experimental design and execution, delivering timely and accurate results to drive project success.
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability within lab operations.
  • Foster a culture of safety, innovation, and collaboration within the lab, promoting best practices and effective communication.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minimum of 6 years experience in laboratory operations OR master’s degree in chemistry with a minimum 4 years of experience in laboratory operations OR PhD in chemistry with a minimum of 2 years of experience.
  • Knowledge of LCMS, NMR and Flash/HPLC Chromatography and Rotovaps preferred.
  • Proven expertise in chemistry and laboratory techniques, with a strong understanding of relevant regulations (e.g., GLP/GMP).
  • Exceptional leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to various stakeholders.
  • Knowledge of E-chem, Synple, and Genevac a plus.
  • Proficiency in laboratory management systems and data analysis software.
  • A commitment to continuous learning and staying current with industry trends.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The IBRI provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.