Laboratory Coordinator

Position Details Position Information Position Title Laboratory Coordinator Research Project Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Laboratory Department/Unit Earth & Environmental Sciences Location Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Posting Number S306-26 Employee Group Grant-Paid (PSAC Local 86001) Position Type Term Duration of Contract (if applicable) 1 year with possibility of extension Employment Type Full Time Full-time Equivalency (FTE) 1.0 Salary $63,648
- $80,594 per annum based on 37.5 hours per week. Classification Provisional Statement About Dalhousie University Dalhousie University is Atlantic Canada’s leading research-intensive university and a driver of the region’s intellectual, social and economic development. Located in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, with an Agricultural Campus in Truro/Bible Hill, Dalhousie is a truly national and international university, with more than half of our almost 21,000 students coming from outside of the province. Our 6,000 faculty and staff foster a vibrant, purpose-driven community, that celebrated 200 years of academic excellence in 2018. Job Summary The Stable Isotope Biogeochemistry Laboratory in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences conducts research on the biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nitrogen in natural environments, specializing in compound-specific isotope analysis of amino acids and other organic molecules. Reporting to the Principal Investigator (PI), the Laboratory Coordinator will oversee the general operation of all laboratory activities, including equipment, training, and laboratory safety.

Key Responsibilities
• Manage sample intake and preparation. Perform organic derivatizations, and develop and update derivatization protocols. Train users to safely perform derivatizations on their own.
• Operate, maintain, and train users on gas chromatograph, mass spectrometer (GC-MS), gas chromatograph and isotope ratio mass spectrometer (GC
- IRMS ) systems, and benchtop equipment (e.g. saws, centrifuges, and microbalances).
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair instrument errors and malfunctions. Initiate GC-MS and GC
- IRSM method development activities. Assist the laboratory PI, students and collaborators with experiments and method development.
• Monitor GC-MS and GC
- IRMS data acquisitions and perform data calibrations and data quality assurance/quality control. Provide timely updates and reporting to clients. Facilitate and engage in laboratory cross-calibration activities.
• Ensure a safe laboratory environment, including training on the safe use of equipment. Keep up to date with certifications and safety audits.
• Procure and maintain operationally ready inventories of chemicals, clean glassware, consumables, and compressed gases. Note The incumbent may also be requested to contribute to laboratory capacity-building efforts off-site, which will involve travel to remote northern communities in Nunatsiavut for up to three weeks at a time biannually. Scheduling and compensation will be in accordance with the collective agreement. This position requires handling of strong acids and solvents. Due to operational requirements, the successful applicant is required to work in-person on campus. Required Qualifications
• Undergraduate degree in Science with a major in Earth Science, Biology, or a related field plus a minimum of five years of related laboratory coordination experience (or equivalent combination of training and experience).
• Hands-on experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting gas chromatographs and mass spectrometers, including GC
- IRMS systems and associated compressed gas and electrical distribution systems.
• Previous experience with trophic ecology or biogeochemistry, along with familiarity with amino acid derivatization methods, compound-specific stable isotope analysis, and quantitative research methods, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, R, and data management.
• Demonstrated initiative with excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication skills, including the demonstrated ability to convey complex procedures to collaborators of diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to lift up to 40 kg on a daily basis. Assets
• Experience installing and commissioning laboratory and industrial equipment.
• Experience in sclerochronology. Job Competencies The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate proficiency in Dalhousie’s core and leadership competencies, in particular:
• Self-Awareness & Professionalism
• Integrity
• Respect & Inclusion
• Knowledge & Thinking Skills
• Communication Additional Information Dalhousie University supports a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Our total compensation package includes a voluntary RRSP , health and dental plans, a wellness allowance, an employee and family assistance program and a tuition assistance program. Application Consideration Non-probationary bargaining unit employees ( PSAC Local 86001) are given priority consideration. All other applications will be considered when there is no qualified candidate from the bargaining unit. Full-time students currently enrolled at an educational institution are not eligible for regular Grant-Paid positions. We sincerely appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring department or People and Culture. Diversity Statement Dalhousie University commits to achieving inclusive excellence through continually championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. The university encourages applications from Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (especially Mi’kmaq), persons of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), and members of other racialized groups, persons with disabilities, women, persons identifying as members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and all candidates who would contribute to the diversity of our community. In accordance with our Employment Equity Policy, preference will be given in hiring processes to candidates who self-identify as members of one or more of the equity-deserving groups listed above. For more information, including details related to our Employment Equity Policy and Plan and definitions of equity-deserving groups please review our Employment Equity information. If you require any support for the purpose of accommodation, such as technical aids or alternative arrangements, please let us know of these needs and how we can be of assistance. Dalhousie University is committed to ensuring all candidates have full, fair, and equitable participation in the hiring process. Our complete Accommodation Policy can be viewed here . Posting Detail Information Number of Vacancies One Open Date 10/01/2026 Close Date 10/08/2026 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicant Quick Link for Direct Access to Posting https://dal.peopleadmin.ca/postings/22183