Head of Biology/Biochemistry Laboratory

We are looking for a highly motivated and knowledgeable Laboratory Director to join our growing laboratory team. This pivotal role combines strong leadership and operational management with hands-on laboratory expertise. You will be instrumental in the management of the laboratory, while also making a significant contribution to our research and development efforts yourself. You will use your expertise in biology (preferably microbiology, genomics) and/or biochemistry (preferably analytical methods such as HPLC and spectroscopic methods) to advance our scientific knowledge. The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of biology and biochemical principles, laboratory and HSE procedures, coupled with proven management experience and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. 

👉 Responsibilities:

As a laboratory manager, you will play a dual role, overseeing laboratory operations and actively contributing to our laboratory work.

1. Lab Management & Team 🤝 Leadership

• Manage all laboratory resources and optimize the allocation and use of laboratory equipment and resources (including the team).

• Provide comprehensive support and guidance to all lab technicians. Serve as the main technical and procedural referent for the laboratory team, complementing the technical supervisors on specific programs and projects. Ensure that the laboratory team is properly integrated, trained, and developed over time.

• Oversee laboratory infrastructure and equipment, including acquisition, ensuring proper maintenance and problem solving. Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment, including autoclave, HPLC, MS, and spectrometers.

• Oversee and strengthen laboratory processes and day-to-day operations.

• Ensuring a safe and efficient work environment

  • Maintain and strictly enforce all health, safety and environmental (HSE) and safety regulations.

  • Ensure strict adherence to laboratory protocols and proper handling of all materials and equipment.

• Collaborate effectively with other scientists and managers to support project objectives.

2. Contributions to research and laboratory 🔬 work

Support team as needed, sometimes as a primary referent, substitute and/or owner of specific activities, such as (illustratively):

• Development and validation of new methods, such as extraction, sequencing or analytical methods.

• Analysis and interpretation of complex data, and preparation of comprehensive reports summarizing the results.

• Sample preparation for analysis, including extraction, purification, and diversion.

• Quantification and characterization of lipids, sugars and proteins.

• Routine and non-routine analyses using HPLC, MS (LC-MS, GC-MS), and other spectroscopic techniques (e.g., UV-Vis, FTIR, Raman).

• QC Activities

Education and professional experience

• Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in biology, biochemistry or a related field. 🎓

• Proven experience: At least 3 years of experience in managing a biology or biochemistry laboratory.

• Technical competence: Strong hands-on experience in sample preparation, extractions, analytical methods.

• Sample preparation: Expertise in biochemical sample preparation techniques.

Key Skills and Attributes

• Problem solving: Excellent troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving skills. 💪

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.

• Organizational Skills: Very organized with great attention to detail.

• Team Player: Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

• Bilingual: Fluency in English and French is required for effective communication within our diverse team.

Entrepreneurship and Mission Alignment

• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast, and sometimes ambiguous startup environment. Previous start-up experience is an asset.

• Passion for our mission: We are looking for someone who is deeply motivated by the urgent need to address global challenges and contribute to a sustainable future. Your role here is more than just a job; It is a commitment to building and implementing solutions that will have a positive impact on our planet. 🌱

1. A screening with our HR manager

2. Interview with our CSO

3. Last interview with our COO and CEO on values and culture

4. Let's start ! 🚀