Research Lab Manager - McDonnell Genome Institute

Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis

St. Louis, MO, USA
USD 63,400-115k / year
Posted on Oct 1, 2025

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The discovery of new drugs has become exponentially more expensive with time, a phenomenon known as Eroom’s law. If this trend is not reversed, investment in health care will plummet as capital is shifted to growth industries, and the field will enter a period of great stagnation. The McDonnell Genome Institute (MGI) seeks to combat Eroom’s law via the application of artificial intelligence, robotics, and genomics. The Technology Development Lab at MGI is a cutting-edge lab focused on evaluating, developing, and refining genomics tools for the implementation within the MGI laboratories.

Work in the lab includes a wide array of activities including participation and oversight of key programs within the Technology Development team. Participation in our neuro resiliency project, randomized mutagenesis, and evaluation and optimization of new and existing sequencing pipelines are key activities for this role. Development and refinement of techniques associated with these projects as well as establishment of services associated with this work are desired. Establishment of cost models, service interfaces project management, and interaction with external potential users making key services readily available to internal and external customers are all key points of focus.

Performs, oversees and coordinates research projects. Oversees entire laboratory setting to promote smooth operation, regulatory compliance and interaction with other laboratories.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Designs, performs and evaluates research procedures.
  • Assists with grant preparation, journal article submission, and data presentation at meetings and webinars.
  • Develops and implements cost models, user interfaces, policies and procedures.
  • Provides comprehensive direction to laboratory personnel.
  • Hires, trains and evaluates the performance of laboratory personnel.
  • Oversees and directs all support activities of the lab including human resources, budgets, facility maintenance, purchasing, supplies, materials and equipment.
  • Researches and recommends new methods and procedures to maintain current capabilities, quality and standards.
  • Investigates new technologies and evaluates their efficacy compared to current methods.

Working Conditions:

  • Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
  • Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Master’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.


Certifications:

No specific certification is required for this position.


Work Experience:

Research Laboratory Operations (5 Years)


Skills:

Not Applicable


Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Hands-on experience in molecular techniques including integral knowledge of sequencing technologies and chemistries.
  • Minimum of 7 years – wet lab and/or NGS experience (Molecular genomics skills: PCR, NGS library construction, single cell, cloning, sequencing), laboratory instrumentation, management and organization.
  • Scripting knowledge.
  • Effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to present on various research topics to internal or external audiences to convey and promote product services to a customer base.
  • Ability to maintain complete and organized records and reports including detailed cost modeling, budgeting, and cost tracking.
  • Independent work skills with key problem solving and troubleshooting skills to maintain critical workflows.
  • Demonstrated ability and knowledge of computer software and lab equipment, including statistical software, spreadsheets, and lab management systems.
  • Ability to develop and maintain complex laboratory processes.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.


Certifications:

No additional certification unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.


Work Experience:

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills:

Analytical Problem Solving, Communication, Prioritization

Grade

R12

Salary Range

$63,400.00 - $115,000.00 / AnnuallyThe salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

  • Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

  • Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

  • Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

  • WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

  • Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

  • We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

  • WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.Washington University is dedicated to building a community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.