Lab Manager

About the Company

Until is a visionary company focused on developing a "pause button" for biological systems. Their immediate objective is to enable organ-scale reversible cryopreservation by preserving donated organs at subzero temperatures without ice formation and then uniformly rewarming them for transplantation. This breakthrough aims to extend to whole-body reversible cryopreservation, offering patients a way to await future medical advancements safely.

The interdisciplinary team is engaged in building perfusion systems, cryoprotectant formulations, vitrification, and rewarming hardware. The company envisions a world where no donated organ is lost due to logistical challenges and where terminal diagnoses no longer signify end-of-life.

Role Overview

The Lab Manager will oversee the daily operations of Until's research laboratories, ensuring a safe, efficient, and well-organized environment for scientific work. This position involves managing laboratory logistics, facilities, inventory, equipment upkeep, vendor coordination, and operational enhancements to support the expansion of research activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and full functionality of the laboratory on a daily basis.
• Clean, sterilize, and arrange laboratory glassware meticulously.
• Prepare laboratory buffers and solutions following established protocols.
• Ensure replenishment and distribution of frequently used reagents and consumables.
• Coordinate the safe disposal and handling of hazardous and biological waste.
• Lead efforts to organize lab spaces and implement high standards for shared areas.
• Conduct routine maintenance and cleaning of lab equipment including centrifuges and communal instruments.
• Schedule and coordinate maintenance, repairs, calibrations, and vendor service visits.
• Collaborate with scientific teams on optimizing lab layouts, bench space allocation, equipment placement, and shared infrastructure.
• Support expansion projects like renovations, equipment moves, and space planning.
• Manage offsite storage and warehouse operations, including equipment organization and inventory consolidation.
• Oversee laboratory inventory to maintain critical supply levels while controlling waste.
• Manage shipping and receipt of laboratory materials, equipment, and biological samples.
• Develop recurring purchasing procedures and seek cost-saving opportunities.
• Liaise with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of supplies and materials.
• Create and upkeep a comprehensive Lab Operations Handbook containing procedures, contacts, permits, certifications, and workflows.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for lab operations and logistics.
• Document specialized processes such as transplant logistics and program-specific workflows.
• Continuously enhance lab systems, workflows, and organizational methods as the company grows.
• Work closely with research teams to anticipate needs and alleviate operational bottlenecks.
• Coordinate onboarding for new lab staff including orientation and best practices.
• Assist in scheduling and resource planning across scientific teams.
• Lead regular lab cleanups and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Growth Opportunities

• Define long-term strategies for laboratory infrastructure scaling aligned with organizational growth.
• Design systems for inventory management and equipment tracking.
• Evaluate storage and facility solutions.
• Standardize lab organization protocols across teams.
• Implement preventive maintenance programs for equipment.
• Enhance efficiency via automation, refined processes, and facility planning.

Candidate Profile

• Possesses a Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, engineering, or a related scientific field, or has equivalent lab operations experience.
• Has over 3 years of experience in laboratory operations, management, or research support.
• Experienced in working within research labs, biotech, life sciences, or fast-paced startup environments.
• Exhibits excellent organizational skills and high attention to detail.
• Capable of independently managing multiple priorities and operational challenges.
• Proficient in coordinating vendors, equipment maintenance, purchasing, and laboratory logistics.
• Strong written communication and documentation abilities.
• Physically able to handle lab materials up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) or comparable laboratory environments.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety regulations, environmental health and safety (EHS) protocols, or chemical inventory management.
• Familiarity with laboratory build-outs, moves, or facility projects.
• Experience with procurement or inventory management software.
• Skill in developing SOPs and operational documentation.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Flexible paid time off and recognized holidays.
• Competitive salary combined with equity compensation.
• Access to a 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and commuter benefits.
• Daily provided lunch and dinner, plus a variety of snacks.
• Monthly stipend for learning and professional development.
• On-site fitness facility.
• Quarterly funding allocated for team social events.

Additional Information

The company may utilize artificial intelligence tools during the hiring process to assist in reviewing applications and verifying information; however, final decisions rest with human recruiters. Exceptional candidates may be considered for flexible work arrangements.