Senior Laboratory Manager

Overview M42 is a global health champion powered by artificial intelligence (AI), technology and genomics to advance innovation in health for people and the planet. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, M42 combines its specialized, state-of-the-art facilities with integrated health solutions like genomics and biobanks, and harnesses advanced technologies to deliver precise, preventive and predictive care, to disrupt traditional healthcare models and positively impact lives globally.

M42’s Integrated Health Solutions (IHS) platform leads national programs and population health initiatives while addressing global health disparities through precision, prevention, and predictive care. Uniting expertise in genomics, biobanking, data services, environmental sciences, and clinical research and trials, IHS delivers innovative, evidence-based solutions that advance both regional and global health. Its flagship programs include the Emirati Genome Program (EGP), enabling personalized healthcare; the Abu Dhabi BioBank, supporting drug discovery and biobanking; and Biogenix Labs, driving precision medicine with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). In addition, Environmental Sciences investigates non-human factors influencing public health, while IROS fosters innovation through world-class clinical research. Together, these initiatives reflect M42’s commitment to healthier communities and a more sustainable future.

We are seeking a highly capable and self-directed Lab Manager to lead daily activities in a genomics and molecular biology laboratory with a primary focus on plants genomics, and occasional work involving non human / environmental samples. The role requires an individual who can work independently, supervise laboratory personnel, maintain clean and well-organized documentation systems, and ensure scientific and operational standards are consistently met. The core technical scope of the role includes DNA extraction, sequencing workflow management, and population genomics studies, as well as protein extraction from plants, soil, and animal samples.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day laboratory operations across plant genomics and molecular biology.
• Supervise and train staff to ensure efficient workflows and high-quality, compliant outputs.
• Maintain an audit-ready lab, ensuring accurate documentation, traceability, and record-keeping.
• Perform and oversee DNA (including HMW) and protein extraction from plant, soil, and animal samples.
• Must have experience in plant, soil, and animal samples extractions.
• Manage sequencing workflows, including sample prep, QC, and library coordination.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot methods to improve data quality and throughput.
• Prepare reports and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver reliable scientific outputs.
• Provide technical guidance on genomics and molecular analysis.
• Maintain equipment and manage inventory of reagents and consumables.
• Must have at least 3 years management experience.
• Ensure compliance with SOPs, quality standards, HSE requirements, and audit processes.
• Drive continuous improvement across lab operations and processes.
• Support broader lab and research activities as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Genomics, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Plant/Animal Science, Bioinformatics, or related field, with 3+ years’ relevant experience.
• Strong hands-on experience in plant genomics, including HMW DNA extraction from complex tissues, nucleic acid QC, and sequencing sample preparation.
• Solid knowledge of long- and short-read sequencing workflows and platforms (e.g., Illumina, MGI, Oxford Nanopore).
• Experience in protein extraction from plant, soil, and animal samples.
• Ability to independently manage laboratory work while supervising and mentoring staff.
• Strong troubleshooting skills across experimental workflows, instrumentation, and data pipelines.
• Proven experience managing documentation, quality systems, SOP compliance, and audit readiness.
• Familiarity with key lab platforms (e.g., PromethION, NovaSeq, Fragment Analyzer, gel electrophoresis).
• Strong organizational, communication, and technical writing skills.
• High level of accountability, problem-solving ability, and collaboration in multidisciplinary environments.