Laboratory Section Manager

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

Monday through Friday, 8AM to 5PM with occasional alternate hours

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( hrweb@uga.edu).

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

The laboratory manager provides scientific, operational, and personnel leadership for the Serology/Virology section of the Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory ( AVDL).. Responsibilities include: performing a wide variety of laboratory techniques to detect viruses, some bacteria, and prions from a wide variety of animal specimens and to detect antibodies against viruses, bacteria, and fungi in animal serum samples. The position will be primarily responsible for the delivery of accurate, timely and high-quality diagnostic testing service, quality management, ordering supplies and reagents, and maintenance of laboratory equipment in the Serology/Virology section. The laboratory manager ensures compliance with the accreditation requirements by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians ( AAVLD) and maintains the highest standard of quality management in the Serology/Virology section.

Knowledge and experience with a wide variety of virology, immunology, and microbiological techniques. Knowledge of sterile techniques, including the preparation and maintenance of cell cultures. Knowledge and skills in microtitration techniques, dilutions and micropipetting. Ability to accurately observe/interpret test results and communicate them to veterinarians. Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment on test procedures and interpretation of results. Ability to plan/prioritize tasks and function in a sequential and logical manner. Ability to troubleshoot test and equipment failures. Knowledge and understanding of current version of AAVLD Requirements for an Accredited Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. In-depth experience with Microsoft Office, Acrobat as well as general use of computer software packages. Ability to manage personnel and workflow, maintain equipment and facilities. Ability to supervise and train other technicians on laboratory techniques. Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing, including the ability to prepare reports and write standard operating procedures.

Manual dexterity; Lift up to 50 Lb.

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Perform a variety of diagnostic tests for the detection of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and prions from animal tissues. Work content will include: receiving/recording of samples; preparing samples for testing; culturing various cell lines for virus isolation and serum neutralization tests; performing a wide variety of diagnostic tests including but not limited to: ELISA, direct & indirect immunofluorescence, PCR, serum neutralization, latex agglutination, and agar gel immunodiffusion. Interpret results of diagnostic assays conducted by laboratory technicians in the Virology/Serology Section and communicate the results to submitting veterinarians. Provide consultation to clients on test procedures and interpretation of test results.

Responsible for all aspects of quality assurance and quality control, including (but not limited to): writing new standard operating procedures; periodically revising existing SOPs; assuring measurement traceability by acquiring appropriate test controls and monitoring/charting the performance of such controls; monitoring turnaround times of tests finalized; performing root cause analysis of non-conforming tests; assuring the calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment; assisting section head in writing reports for accreditation auditors; assisting the Quality Manager in implementing requirements essential for the lab to maintain its accreditation status.

Serve as immediate supervisor of all technicians in the Serology/Virology section. Implement proper cross-training and flexibility of scheduling to assure that technicians are able to handle unexpected surges in any given test. Conduct annual performance evaluation of technicians. Oversee the daily workflow of the Serology/Virology Section, including BSE (mad cow disease), CWD (chronic wasting disease), marine mammal, and routine veterinary testing. Assure that all requested tests are setup promptly and results reported to submitting veterinarians in a timely manner. Responsible for ordering laboratory supplies and maintaining reagent stocks; general laboratory upkeep and cleaning. Collaborate with other section managers and laboratory leadership to improve operational efficiency and client services. Support client outreach and education efforts.