About the Lab:
The Booker Lab at the University of Pennsylvania is a dynamic biochemical research group focused on understanding the mechanisms of radical S-adenosylmethionine (rSAM) enzymes and other metalloenzymes involved in complex biochemical transformations.
The lab integrates enzymology, structural biology, mechanistic chemistry, and microbial metabolism to uncover how these systems function at the molecular level. In addition to its research mission, the lab maintains strong connections with HHMI and the broader university community, including involvement in training and mentorship initiatives.
For more information about the lab, please visit: https://web.sas.upenn.edu/bookerlab/
About the Role:
The Booker Lab is seeking a highly organized, collaborative, and proactive Lab Manager to oversee both technical and administrative operations in support of the labâs research mission. This role is central to maintaining a productive, safe, and well-coordinated laboratory environment while enabling high-quality experimental work.
The Lab Manager will serve as a key liaison between the lab, HHMI, and university administrative offices, managing budgeting, purchasing, compliance, and grant-related activities. This individual may also support or contribute to research projects, depending on background and experience.
This position offers strong exposure to leadership, mentorship, and lab operations, and is well-suited for individuals interested in developing long-term careers in scientific research, administration, or academic leadership.
The preferred start timeline for this position is June 2026. This is a full-time role, and flexibility is required to support time-sensitive lab needs, including occasional off-hours communication to ensure continuity of operations.
Application Instructions:
Please submit the following materials when completing your application:
Curriculum vitae
Cover letter describing your interest in the position and relevant experience
Contact information for three professional references
What Youâll Get:
Opportunity for career advancement and professional growth
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
Exposure to leadership opportunities
Strong mentorship and training environment
Opportunities to contribute to research and publications (as applicable)
Access to a collaborative academic and scientific network at UPenn
What Youâll Do:
Lead day-to-day laboratory operations, including equipment oversight and supply management
Serve as primary liaison between the lab, HHMI, and university administrative offices
Oversee budgeting, purchasing, fixed asset tracking, and account management
Ensure compliance with institutional safety and regulatory guidelines
Develop and maintain SOPs, procedural manuals, and lab guidelines
Train and mentor incoming personnel in lab conduct, safety, and technical procedures
Provide day-to-day supervision and guidance to Research Technicians and junior staff
Coordinate grant submissions, including tracking deadlines and compiling required documentation
Evaluate and implement new technologies, workflows, and systems to improve lab efficiency
Support or contribute to research activities, including experimental coordination and data management
What You Bring:
Education & Experience
Bachelorâs degree in biochemistry or a related field required
Advanced degree (Masterâs or PhD) preferred
Three or more years of lab experience, including at least one year of supervisory experience
Skills & Competencies
Strong operational knowledge of laboratory equipment and instrumentation
Proven ability to supervise, mentor, and support lab personnel
Excellent organizational and multitasking skills
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Experience with grant coordination, budgeting, and administrative processes preferred
Ability to develop training materials and standard operating procedures
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to improve systems and processes
Demonstrated initiative and ability to operate independently in a fast-paced environment
Physical Requirements:
Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances.
Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please Note:
This job description sets forth the jobâs principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word âmay,â the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are âessential functionsâ of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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Compensation and Benefits
Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.Â
Compensation Range
$71,200.00 (minimum) - $89,018.80 (midpoint) - $115,700.00 (maximum)Pay Type:
AnnualHHMIâs salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.
HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.
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