Lab Manager, Chemistry and Biology R&D

Organization: Platform Technology

Location: Singapore

Job Type: Full Time

About NATi:

The Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Initiative (NATi), hosted by A*STAR, is Singapore's national platform dedicated to advancing RNA-based medicines and revolutionizing drug and vaccine development. NATi's mission is to establish Singapore as a globally recognized hub of excellence in nucleic acid therapeutics research, clinical translation, and commercialization.

NATi focuses on key RNA modalities such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA). To drive this vision, NATi is building a biotech-like translational engine focused on asset and technology development spanning discovery to clinical development.

We are actively seeking passionate and committed RNA scientists with deep translational expertise to join us in advancing the next generation of RNA-based therapeutics.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and highly organized Lab Manager to set up a new R&D centre and manage the day-to-day operations of the R&D laboratories. This role is critical in ensuring that our labs operate efficiently, safely, and in full compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will have prior experience in public sector research operations and a proven track record in lab setup, safety management, procurement, and technical operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Lab Setup & Expansion:
Lead the establishment and expansion of R&D laboratories including both chemistry and biology experimental activities, including space planning, appropriate licensure, hazard and waste management, utilities coordination, and workflow optimization.

Safety Compliance & Risk Management:
Develop, implement, and enforce laboratory safety protocols. Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with institutional, and national safety regulations (e.g., biosafety, chemical handling, fire safety). Develop and deliver safety training programs for all lab personnel.

SOP Development:
Establish and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for lab processes, equipment usage, equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and emergency response plans.

Procurement & Vendor Management:
Manage procurement of lab equipment, consumables, and services. Liaise with procurement offices and vendors in accordance with public sector procurement guidelines and policies.

Equipment Installation & Maintenance:
Oversee the delivery, installation, and routine maintenance of scientific equipment. Coordinate with service engineers and internal users to ensure operational readiness and uptime.

Inventory & Asset Management:
Establish and maintain a robust inventory tracking system for chemicals, reagents, biological samples, and equipment. Ensure regular audits and compliance with storage regulations.

Operational Oversight:
Ensure efficient day-to-day lab operations, including space allocation, waste disposal, facility coordination, and user training.

Liaison & Reporting:
Act as a liaison between R&D teams, facility teams, and institutional safety and compliance offices. Prepare reports for audits, inspections, and internal reviews.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Life Sciences, or a related field.

Minimum 5 years of experience managing R&D lab operations, preferably in a public research institute setting.

Demonstrated hands-on experience with lab setup, safety compliances, equipment commissioning and maintenance, and public sector procurement processes.

Demonstrated strong knowledge of regulatory requirements for biosafety, chemical safety, and laboratory risk management.

Proficient in Microsoft 365 including Office, SharePoint, Teams etc. and laboratory management software (e.g., inventory or asset tracking systems).

Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Preferred Attributes:

Experience with LIMs, ELN.

Qualifications in QMS, ISO, GLP or GMP.

Certification in laboratory safety or facilities management.

Experience working with multi-disciplinary R&D teams.