Job Details

Technical Laboratory Manager, Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH)

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Posted by Katie Stinson
Tue Dec 20, 2022

Job Description:

Position 

Technical Laboratory Manager

 

Qualifications:

In order to qualify for a Technical Laboratory Manager, GS-601, position, you must have completedthe requirements for a bachelor’s or graduate/higher level degree with major study in an academic field related to the medical field, health sciences or allied sciences appropriate to the work of the position. This degree must be from an educational program from an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education at the time the degree was obtained.

 

This position is subject to a background investigation.

 

The starting salary for this position is $106,823.  This is a full-time permanent position with benefits located in Frederick, Maryland.

 

To Apply:

Send a cover letter, CV including bibliography, and contact information for three references to the following address:

Eric Freed, Ph.D.
HIV Dynamics and Replication Program
National Cancer Institute
Email: DirectorHIVDRP@mail.nih.gov

 

Deadline:

February 1, 2023


POSITION DESCRIPTION

Technical Laboratory Manager, GS-601-13

 

INTRODUCTION:

This position is located in one of the organizational components of the Center for Cancer Research (CCR), National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The NCI is the principal agency of the Federal government for cancer research and for carrying out the National Cancer Program. The Institute conducts research in its own facilities, directs research carried out under contracts, and provides grant support of research and training in non­federal institutions in the United States and abroad. The Institute has an organization consisting of the Office of the Director and six major Centers and Divisions: Center for Cancer Research, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Control, Division of Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer Prevention, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, and Division of Extramural Activities. The Institute operates with a staff of approximately 3,500 and an annual budget of approximately $5.0 billion.

The CCR conducts cutting edge basic and clinical research on the discovery of causes and mechanisms of cancer for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of these diseases; trains and supports young investigators in basic and clinical cancer research; translates fundamental research pioneering into clinical research and molecular medicine; provides patient care, treatment and public education; and contributes to the mission of the National Cancer Institute by integrating and coordinating Center activities with other NCI activities intramurally and extramurally.

The incumbent serves as a Technical Laboratory Manager in an intramural laboratory of the Center for Cancer Research and provides a full range of scientific and technical research support for the cancer research programs of the assigned laboratory.

MAJOR DUTIES:

1. Technical Lab/Branch Management: (Approx. - 50%)

Serves as the principal advisor to the Lab Chief on scientific operational matters. Assists in the formulation of basic scientific policy directives that form the framework for the effective management of the laboratories research programs. In this capacity, participates with senior management in planning, managing and directing the operational projects and activities associated with the Program.

Identifies the need and feasibility for providing science policy alternatives either orally or in writing to the Lab/Branch Chief with well-documented descriptions that describe the potential impact for each alternative. These alternatives often have bearing on policy development or implementation.

Represents the Lab/Branch Chief in meetings related to commitments and recommendations concerning the policies, procedures, programs and activities of the lab/branch.

Coordinates and participates with senior management in the development and implementation of programs, policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines in the areas of administrative management, program and financial planning and evaluation, information management and other related activities in support of major lab/branch/center/division/institute programs and functions. Keeps abreast of the latest developments in areas related to the ongoing research of the laboratories research programs.

Personally directs and/or conducts special projects/studies of activities of concern to the Lab/Branch Chief with particular emphasis on operational activities which may involve a coordinated effort between the lab/branch, institute, agency, department or private non­governmental organizations. Such projects/studies may involve operational matters on fiscal policy, may result from national public health issues or congressional interest, and often have sensitive or controversial aspects. Conceives and implements new initiatives and projects to strengthen, facilitate, and integrate laboratory programs. Undertakes or participates in special projects, ongoing analysis, investigations and initiatives that have high priority for lab/branch/center/institute. This may involve producing complex analysis and written reports; organizing special committees, workshops or other gatherings; initiating program reviews; and/or developing or fostering cross-organizational activities. Based on the mission goals, operations and changing program requirements, identifies relevant issues; collects relevant information from a variety of sources, some of which are difficult to access, and develops management analysis studies designed to streamline, simplify and facilitate scientific or administrative program operations. Findings from projects/studies often result in authoritative recommendations and/or decisions for change, redirection, implementation, or elimination of policies or programs. Develops position documents as well as summary and overview reports. These documents are prepared to define and explain issues, describe options and make recommendations concerning scientific policy and provide the Lab/Branch Chief with current information on issues and policy recommendations within the laboratory/branch.

Responsible for the management activities of the laboratory, including: scheduling meetings, and preparing issue-based agendas and official records or notes of meetings. Assures timely resolution of conflicts or problems to avoid delays in achieving goals. Acts as a driving force for the timely completion of project activities and attainment of project objectives within the established project plans and performance goals set by the Lab/Branch Chief. Works with all laboratory staff to develop project plans, including establishing priorities for ongoing studies, and setting up time frames, milestones, and an agreed upon endpoint. Manages and coordinates the work the laboratory staff to determine how much progress is being made and if any problems are surfacing. Monitors and reports actual status of all activities within the assigned projects through interaction with project participants and, if required, supervisors and directors. Identifies project activities or situations that adversely impact project plans and recommends solutions to problem areas. Identifies and coordinates the resolution of conflicting resource needs, availability, and scheduling. Serves as the point of contact and provides authoritative advice for all communications concerning respective areas of research

Provide scientific support to lab/branch by analyzing scientific research data for inclusion in IC reports and websites.  Reviews and edits scientific documents and makes recommendations to Senior Investigators.  Compile results based on project-specific SOPs, in order to report data to research team and various platforms for public dissemination.  Develop systems, databases, and methodologies to collect and analyze data for clinical or basic research purposes.  Perform scientific and administrative reviews and analyses of applications/proposals from a programmatic viewpoint. Develop and implement changes to improve the advancement of data dissemination, data science solutions, and advanced technologies for the organization. Perform basic IT functions, including, but not limited to, server maintenance, program installation, management of data back-ups and associated hardware/networking/scheduling. Identify opportunities for internal process improvement.  In consultation with individual investigators, prepares analyses of scientific accomplishments of lab/branch for use in annual and other reports and documents (e.g. program planning documents, annual reports, or reports for site visits).

Guides the lab/branch in the creation of effective quality assurance programs. Establishes professional standards that comply with accreditation policies and agency guidelines. Implements safety procedures and has primary responsibility for the laboratory's compliance with regulations and guidelines. Maintains knowledge of, and ensures that, the laboratory meets regulatory guideline requirements. Performs quality control and assurance in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices, NIH, and OSHA safety guidelines.

Assists lab/branch staff in the creation or preparation of a variety of documents required by the scientific activities of the lab (e.g., CRADAs/Letter of Understanding, Material Transfer Agreements, Patent Applications/Licensing Agreements, Investigational New Drug Files and Clinical Trials Protocol Development). Develops respective portions of such documents, serves as the liaison with appropriate internal and external scientific and administrative staff, monitors progress, and assures that conditions of agreements are met. Interacts with Office of Technology Development and the NIH Office of Technology Transfer on patent-related issues.

Verifies laboratory data and procedures using a series of checks and balances in the system. Keeps current on scientific literature and prepares summaries of pertinent research for the laboratory's staff. Reviews, edits and writes first drafts of papers, protocols, posters, and manuscripts produced within the laboratory for consistency of the research agenda, adherence to any applicable scientific policies, and clarity of presentation of data and other scientific information.

Prepares reports, memoranda, abstracts, meeting presentations, scientific manuscripts, and evaluations containing complex scientific terminology and symbols, mathematical formulae, and sophisticated graphic presentations in semi-final form for further review by the author(s) and in final form for submission for publication to scientific journals, contracting, budget review, and site visits; edits protocols, operating procedures, and research reports; ensures clarity of expression in all prepared material. Prepares and edits briefing documents and technical reports for use by management officials.

Attends and makes presentations at lab/branch meetings. Conducts meetings or workshops to discuss specific issues or problems and provides recommendations.

Analyzes and provides recommendations for solutions on specific problems areas arising during the course of the initial or redesign/modification of research projects. Analyzes the program's operations for impact on individual projects, designs internal controls for projects and advises managers on the need for additional resources, changes in focus, and the need for/impact of revising the projects schedule.

2. Administrative Lab/Branch Management: (Approx. 50%)

Performs administrative work and speaks for the Lab/Branch Chief in the following areas: budget and financial management, procurement and contracting, human resources, and administration of supplies, property, renovations and office moves. Continually assesses the laboratories operations and use of resources. Implements new methods and processes to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the laboratory and resources.

Participates with the Lab/Branch Chief and other senior staff in planning, coordinating, and reviewing of the laboratory's programs, resources, and activities. Participates in lab/branch reviews to discuss future proposals for resource allocations. Reviews plans submitted by senior staff and makes recommendations or suggestions for the best alternative methods for obtaining the necessary resources required to accomplish the mission of the organization.

Serves as advisor to Lab/Branch Chief in the formulation, presentation and execution of the laboratories budget. Develops budgets and prepares estimates and appropriate supporting justifications for research projects, studies, or proposed new research initiatives. Monitors and tracks use of funds; initiates request for additional funds; and serves as liaison between AOs and PIs. Investigates cost-effective mechanisms for the procurement of common reagents and specialized laboratory services; independently or in collaboration with senior investigators develops and prescribes technical specification/standards for specialized laboratory equipment or other products; and works with appropriate NCI procurement officials during the procurement process. Manages procurement and contracting for large, complex procurements with contracting authority up to an established threshold. Drafts and/or reviews proposals and prepares Interagency Agreements (IAGs). Investigates cost-effective mechanisms; prescribes specifications for specialized laboratory equipment/products/services; determines potential sources; negotiates costs and availability; and coordinates with NCI procurement officials.

Directs laboratory/branch human resources program involving recruitment, promotions, awards, classifications (i.e., position descriptions), lab safety training, performance appraisal and disciplinary actions. Determines training objectives; develops curriculum and materials; and utilizes a wide variety of training media.

Assists LAN Administrator in the development, implementation and maintenance of a LAN­system for the laboratory and assure the laboratory has access to and employs the latest computer hardware and software technology. Utilizes the laboratories ordering system and budget tracking and analysis, graphics programs e.g., Photoshop and Excel), used for creating figures for presentations, and popular presentation programs. Maintains a database of commonly used laboratory protocols. Provides technical assistance and training for the use of the laboratories databases. Uses data analysis to support the successful implementation and management of program operations. Develops procedures for managing and tracking research projects and issues related to lab safety. Serves as the Laboratory Safety officer, inspecting the laboratories annually and submitting findings to the NCUCCR director. Serves as the laboratory safety representative for the NCI Safety Committee.

Plans and manages the effective use of allocated lab/branch space and coordinates the design and accomplishment of major lab/branch renovations with appropriate NCI and NIH staff. Serves as the property custodiru1 for the laboratory.

Serves as·the liaison for the laboratory on matters relating to collaborative research programs. Provides information and guidance to NCI, NIH and other scientists and non-scientific professionals; staff representing other government organizations and/or non-government organizations/institutions.

FES FACTORS:

FACTOR 1. Knowledge Required by the Position

To manage and enhance the research effort, the incumbent must possess a thorough scientific knowledge of a) the basic principles and limitations of biology, microbiology, chemistry or biochemistry theories; b) the methods, practices and techniques of scientific health research; and c) the criteria, premises, and characteristics underlying the use, functioning, and purposes of the completed product.

Mastery of advanced management and organizational principles and practices along with a comprehensive knowledge of planning, programming, and budgeting regulations, guideline and processes in order to a) direct and/or conduct complex studies requiring application of advance analytical and statistical methods and techniques; b) manage projects and resources in order to meet project goals, and c) serve as a principal advisor to management.

Knowledge of Lab/Branch/Center/Institute program goals and objectives, the sequence and timing of key program events and milestones, and methods of evaluating the worth of the program accomplishments.

Ability to analyze situations, identify problems, probe causes, and suggest courses of actions for scientific and administrative specialists to pursue.

Ability to communicate scientific findings to the scientific community by means of preparation of research papers for publication and by oral presentations at scientific meetings and seminars.

Knowledge of Federal regulatory, safety, and procurement/contracting guidelines.

Skill in working through and with others to maximize each person's contribution and produce excellent results. Ability to maintain harmonious relationships amongst all parties, to achieve appropriate and timely support, and to reconcile divergent viewpoints.

FACTOR 2. Supervisory Controls

The incumbent works under the broad administrative and technical direction of the

Lab/Branch Chief. Within overall objectives and deadlines, incumbent acts on own initiative regarding duties and responsibilities, coordinates the work of others, and report to the

Lab/Branch Chief on key developments, decisions made, and action taken. Emphasis is placed in the incumbent's ability to negotiate (or coordinate) corrective actions independently, as necessary, to the continuity of research initiatives and other scientific projects. The supervisor is available for guidance and consultation in the resolution of major problems requiring a change in policy or establishing agency precedent. Conclusions, decisions, and recommendations proposed within the incumbent's area of responsibility and considered authoritative. The incumbent is held accountable for overall effectiveness in meeting program objectives and goals, compatibility with other work, and the quality of results.

FACTOR 3. Guidelines

Guidelines consist of a wide range of procedures, rules, regulations, analytical techniques and scientific and administrative policies established by various offices with the

Division/Branch/Center/Institute/Agency/Department/other agencies. These guidelines are partially applicable and require considerable adaptation and/or interpretation. Judgment must be used to revise guidelines or to develop more specific guidelines to fit unique and complex situations.

FACTOR 4. Complexity

The scientific research process is characterized by the need for innovative approaches to maximize NCI efforts. The work requires analysis of specific problem areas arising with either the system or project, redesign or modification of the project to provide desired solutions, analysis of program operations for impact on individual projects, designing internal controls for the project, and advising managers on the need for additional resources, changes in focus, and the need for and impact of revising the project schedule. Decisions require continuous assessment of conditions inherent in the research process and resolution of major areas of uncertainty in approach, methodology, or interpretation. The work requires the employee to develop recommendations that best fit particular situations, present alternatives to management effectively, and coordinate extensively with others both within and outside the lab/branch to resolve issues and problems concerning conflicting requirements and rapidly advancing state-of-the art technology.

FACTOR 5. Scope and Effect

The incumbent's work affects the ability of the lab/branch to carry out its scientific program functions. These responsibilities require meticulous design of the project, continual assessment of the effectiveness of the scientific research process, identification and in-depth investigation of recurring problems and unusual circumstance that adversely affect research, and resolution of obstacles to completion of projects. The incumbent's authority to require corrective action, allocate resources, achieve consensus, and provide management continuity through all phases of the research process is pivotal to the accomplishment of the lab/branch's primary mission.

FACTOR 6. Personal Contacts

Personal contacts include scientific investigators both within and outside the agency (e.g., NCI, NIH, private sector) and management officials at various levels both within the agency and at other agencies ( e.g., FDA). There are also frequent contacts with contractors and representatives of industry ( e.g., commercial and academic institutions).

FACTOR 7. Purpose of Contacts

Contacts range in purpose from exchange of technical/scientific information to negotiations concerning the management of the lab/branch's scientific research process to resolution of technical issues related to research projects. Some contracts are established to provide advice and counsel to management; exchange, elicit, and disseminate information; alert lab/branch management to problems and concerns; and encourage staff to approve and implement recommendations for improving effectiveness and efficiency, in light of conflicting priorities. Contacts with scientific staff members and other science experts outside the lab/branch are to facilitate and coordinate the research process; reconcile incompatible technical and management demands that cause delays or other problems; and prepare final recommendations. Contacts with higher-level management officials in the Institute and Agency arc to obtain additional information; explain the need for additional resources; negotiate maters in contention; and provide current status of projects.

FACTOR 8. Physical Demands

The work imposes no special physical demands.

FACTOR 9. Work Environment

The work is typically performed in a laboratory/branch setting, which involves moderate risks or discomforts requiring special safety' precautions (e.g., mask, gloves, and gown).

OTHER:

The incumbent will be required to pass a pre-employment physical since the position meets the criteria for participation in the NIH medical surveillance program.

Closing Date

Feb 1, 2023


Tags: medical health sciences allied sciences full-time