LABORATORY MANAGER

At Altum Sequencing we are dedicated to transforming cancer diagnostics and monitoring through cutting-edge genomic technologies.
As Laboratory Manager your mission is to lead the daily operations and continuous improvement of our molecular biology and sequencing laboratory ensuring scientific excellence operational efficiency and full compliance with ISO FDA and IVDR standards.
You will be responsible for building and mentoring a high-performing lab team optimizing workflows for clinical and research-grade assays (including NGS and ctDNA analyses) and fostering a quality-driven culture.
Your role is critical in bridging the gap between the scientific team quality management and clinical partners ensuring that every sample processed brings us closer to improving outcomes for patients with cancer.
Tasks Oversee daily laboratory operations ensuring timely accurate and high-quality execution of molecular and sequencing-based assays (including NGS PCR and ctDNA workflows).
Ensure full compliance with ISO ISO FDA and IVDR requirements in all laboratory processes documentation and reporting.
Lead train and mentor the laboratory team fostering a culture of accountability continuous improvement and scientific excellence.
Develop implement and maintain SOPs quality control protocols and validation plans for new and existing assays in alignment with regulatory and accreditation standards.
Collaborate with Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs to support audits inspections non-conformity investigations and CAPA implementation.
Manage laboratory resources including budgeting purchasing inventory control equipment maintenance and vendor relationships.
Act as liaison with cross-functional teams (R&D Bioinformatics Clinical Affairs and Management) to align lab activities with project timelines and strategic goals.
Drive process optimization and automation initiatives to increase efficiency scalability and reproducibility of laboratory workflows.
Ensure a safe working environment by enforcing laboratory safety protocols and compliance with health and safety regulations.
Monitor and report laboratory KPIs and actively contribute to monthly management reviews and strategic planning sessions.
Requirements 1.
Educational Background A Bachelors degree in Molecular Biology Biochemistry Biotechnology Biomedical Sciences or a related field (required).
A Masters degree or PhD in a relevant discipline (preferred) especially with a focus on molecular diagnostics or oncology.
Additional certifications in Quality Management Clinical Laboratory Science or Regulatory Affairs are considered an asset.
2.
Professional Experience At least 5 years of experience in a molecular biology or clinical diagnostics laboratory with strong hands-on involvement in NGS workflows PCR and/or ctDNA analysis.
A minimum of 2 years in a supervisory or managerial position ideally within an ISO-accredited and/or IVD-regulated environment.
Demonstrated experience with assay validation documentation practices and quality control in a clinical or translational setting.
3.
Regulatory & Quality Knowledge Solid understanding of international standards and regulations including.
ISO (medical laboratories) ISO (medical devices and IVDs) FDA 21 CFR Part 820 (Quality System Regulation) EU IVDR Experience with internal audits non-conformance investigations and CAPA implementation.
4.
Technical Proficiency Proven ability to manage and troubleshoot high-throughput workflows involving NGS library preparation sequencing and data quality review.
Familiarity with LIMS laboratory automation systems and QC monitoring tools.
Experience working with clinical samples UMIs and low-input or high-sensitivity molecular assays (e.
.
MRD panels).
5.
Leadership & Communication Strong leadership skills with a track record of successfully managing technical teams and driving performance in a regulated lab environment.
Excellent organizational time management and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams including QA/RA clinicians researchers and senior management.
Fluent in English (written and spoken); proficiency in Spanish is a plus.
Benefits Mission-Driven Impact Be part of a team fighting cancer through cutting-edge liquid biopsy and MRD technologies.
Deep Tech Environment Collaborate with top scientists and engineers at the forefront of bioinformatics and NGS innovation.
Flexible Work Setup Hybrid and remote options available with core hours adapted to scientific workflows.
Continuous Learning Access to conferences courses and internal knowledge-sharing sessions.
Collaborative Culture Work cross-functionally with clinical R&D and product teams in a fast-growing startup.
At Altum Sequencing we believe that our people are our most valuable asset.
We are committed to creating a purpose-driven inclusive and rewarding environment where scientific talent can thrive and contribute to real impact in patients lives.
As a member of our team you will benefit from.
Mission-Driven Work Be part of a cutting-edge company focused on transforming cancer care through precision diagnostics and real-time MRD monitoring.
Contribute to meaningful projects that directly impact clinical decisions and patient outcomes.
Professional Growth & Development Work in a multidisciplinary innovation-driven environment where learning and collaboration are at the core.
Access to internal and external training opportunities including certifications conferences and scientific development.
Defined career progression pathways with the opportunity to take on increasing responsibility and leadership.
Modern Dynamic Workplace A fast-paced biotech start-up culture with a strong focus on agility creativity and teamwork.
Access to state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure and technologies including advanced NGS platforms and automation systems.
Inclusive & Collaborative Culture Flat organizational structure that encourages ownership open communication and idea-sharing.
A supportive team where your voice is heard and your contributions are recognized.
Stability with Flexibility Competitive salary package aligned with your experience and the impact of your role.
Flexible working hours.