Laboratory Supervisor - Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging

The mission of the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University (HNRCA) is to promote healthy aging through nutrition science to empower people seeking to enjoy long, active, and independent lives. HNRCA investigators conduct the world's most advanced studies on nutrition and aging. HNRCA scientists examine how nutrition and physical activity play a major role in the prevention of the major chronic degenerative conditions and diseases associated with aging.

The HNRCA is collaboratively managed by Tufts University and the USDA's Agricultural Research Service (USDA/ARS) through multiple cooperative agreements. Located adjacent to the Tufts University Health Sciences campus in Boston, Massachusetts, the HNRCA is one of six human nutrition research centers in the United States supported by the USDA/ARS and the only one focused on aging.

This is a grant-funded position and is not eligible for severance pay.

Under the general direction of the principal investigator, the Laboratory Supervisor will work independently, exercising a high level of responsiveness, sound judgment, and effective performance even during high-pressure situations. They will perform a wide range of routine and specialized laboratory experiments, develop or modify techniques and protocols, and provide input into research design. They will analyze data and assist the principal investigator in writing/editing materials for publication, presentation, and grant applications. The Laboratory Supervisor will train/supervise others in the laboratory and ensures smooth operations across all laboratory operations and activities.

Essential Functions:

• Applies an advanced knowledge of and extensive experience with a broad variety of basic biomedical science laboratory techniques and procedures, including laboratory animal handling and related skills, to prepare, conduct, and evaluate laboratory experiments; trouble-shoots technical and design problems and recommends solutions; maintains laboratory notebooks, archives, and sample/specimen repositories; collects and analyzes data; prepares technical reports and assists the principal investigator in preparing materials for publication, presentation, and/or extramural grant applications; works with the principal investigator in the development of techniques, experiments, and protocols; collaborates with the principal investigator on research design.
• Manages all aspects of laboratory operations, including data collection and management; hiring, training, supervision, and performance evaluation of laboratory staff and students; inventory management; equipment procurement, maintenance, and management; and compliance with research regulations, policies, and procedures (e.g., IRB and IACUC approvals) and all occupational health and safety requirements.
• Performs other duties, such as HNRCA and Tufts committee service, as assigned.

Basic Requirements:

• Education and experience typically obtained through a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering and five years of research laboratory experience
• Advanced knowledge of scientific principles, procedures, and techniques
• Experience with protocol design and research data collection and analysis
• Previous supervisory and/or teaching/instructional experience
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and leadership skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and strong attention to detail
• Comfort working with individuals from multiple disciplines and/or functional areas

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in science or engineering
• Experience working in interdisciplinary teams

Working Conditions:

• Must be able to multi-task in a fast-moving environment, while working calmly and thoughtfully towards solutions.
• This position may require occasional domestic travel or performing duties on weekends and/or holidays. High degree of availability via email a significant plus.