Laboratory Manager Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Vaccines and Immunity

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Initiative for Vaccines and Immunity (NIVI) seeks to appoint a Laboratory Manager at NIVI Research.

Background

The Novo Nordisk Foundation Initiative for Vaccines and Immunity (NIVI), launched in December 2023, has a unique mission to harness airway immunity through innovative vaccine research and development to prevent airborne epidemics.  NIVI has two parts:

• NIVI Research (NIVI-R): A cutting-edge research center anchored to the University of Copenhagen.
• NIVI Development (NIVI-D): A company that focuses on translational sciences and advancing vaccine development.

NIVI-R conducts scientific research, while NIVI-D works to quickly turn that research into new vaccine candidates. NIVI-D accelerates clinical trials (phases 1 and 2) and ensures a smooth transition to partners for later stages of development.

By connecting science, innovation, clinical trials, regulatory processes, and product development, NIVI aims to streamline the journey from research to real-world vaccines.

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Laboratory Manager to lead operations in our advanced immunology and vaccine research laboratories. NIVI-R focuses on groundbreaking research to develop innovative vaccines and enhance immunity strategies, addressing some of the most pressing global health challenges. The Laboratory Manager will be essential to our mission, overseeing lab operations, ensuring safety and compliance, and supporting a dynamic team of researchers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lab Operations Management: Ensure the efficient day-to-day operation of NIVI-R’s laboratory facilities, coordinating resources and managing workflows for optimal research productivity.
• Safety and Compliance: Develop, implement, and monitor lab safety protocols, ensuring adherence to biosafety standards and regulatory requirements for immunology and vaccine research.
• Inventory and Resource Management: Oversee inventory of lab supplies and reagents, manage vendor relationships, and ensure timely procurement to support research continuity.
• Technical and Research Support: Provide technical expertise, training, and support to lab staff and researchers, including guidance on laboratory techniques, protocols, and new technologies.
• Equipment Maintenance and Calibration: Oversee maintenance and calibration of lab equipment, managing service schedules to ensure reliability and accuracy in experimental work.
• Collaboration and Communication: Facilitate effective communication between laboratory teams, faculty, and external partners, promoting a collaborative research environment.
• Documentation and Data Management: Maintain accurate records of equipment, protocols, and safety documentation; support data management and analysis practices as needed.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Immunology, Microbiology, Life Sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, education as a laboratory technician with extended experience and proven leadership skills.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of laboratory management experience in an immunology, microbiology, or vaccine research environment.
• Technical Expertise: Proficiency with laboratory techniques and equipment commonly used in immunology and vaccine research. Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and biosafety standards.
• Leadership and Interpersonal Skills: Strong leadership skills, with experience in team management and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups of researchers, students, and collaborators.
• Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, with experience managing inventory, budgets, and laboratory scheduling.
• Language Skills: Proficiency in English is required; proficiency in Danish or other Scandinavian languages is an advantage.

Why Join NIVI?

NIVI Research provides a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of vaccine and immunity research, contributing to impactful scientific advancements in global health. As a Laboratory Manager, you will play a key role in facilitating world-class research alongside leading scientists in a collaborative, supportive environment. We offer a good and flexible working environment and ongoing training and career development opportunities.

Employment conditions

For academics, the employment will be in accordance with the provisions of the collective agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). The monthly salary will be based on the number of years of work experience (seniority) with the possibility to negotiate a salary supplement based on prior experiences and qualifications.

For lab technicians, employment will be in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and OAO/HK STAT. The position is placed in salary group 5.

Depending on qualifications a supplement may be negotiated.

Employment will be at NIVI Research, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen N.

Contact

For more information, please contact Professor Thor Grundtvig Theander at thor@sund.ku.dk.

Application Process

Please submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the role.
2. Curriculum Vitae outlining your professional and educational background.
3. References from at least two previous employers or colleagues familiar with your qualifications.

Application Deadline: 2 February 2025
Expected Start Date: 1 April 2025