Lab Operations Specialist (Central Laboratory Operations Team), iCORE

Job Summary

A*STAR’s Integrated Central Operations & Research Enablers (iCORE) is the central backbone for A*STAR’s biomedical research infrastructure, technology platforms and operational support. It provides an integrated ecosystem that enables scientific excellence through access to advanced Technology Platforms, expert-supported scientific services and seamless centralised laboratory operations. By delivering reliable, safe and efficient support at scale, iCORE enables researchers to focus on science while core operational functions are managed professionally and consistently.

About the Job

As part of iCORE's expanding role at the Geneo campus, a Central Laboratory Operations Team is being established to deliver coordinated, end-to-end support for shared laboratory environments. The team will work with researchers, Research Institute operations teams, iCORE Technology Platforms, Logistics Operations, Glassware Operations and A*STAR safety and facilities teams to keep laboratories safe, compliant, efficient and research ready.

The Lab Operations Specialists provide hands-on operational support for a specific floor as part of a building team. The role is the first point of contact for routine floor-level operational matters, completing scheduled activities, responding to user requests, maintaining essential supplies, equipment and records, and escalating issues promptly to the Building Lead. Training will be provided to build the knowledge and practical skills needed for the assigned research environment.

Key Responsibilities

Floor Operations and User Support

• Provide day-to-day operational support for shared laboratories and common research areas on the assigned floor, ensuring that spaces and services remain research ready.
• Serve as an approachable first point of contact for laboratory users on routine operational matters, service requests and fault reporting; track requests through to resolution or escalation.
• Conduct routine floor checks and follow defined checklists, work instructions and schedules; identify irregularities and report emerging risks promptly.
• Support user onboarding, local orientation, equipment familiarisation and operational briefings within the limits of training and authorisation.
• Assist with laboratory moves, equipment or furniture relocation, goods distribution and other practical operational activities.

Consumables, Logistics and Shared Services

• Monitor stock levels and replenish centrally supplied consumables and operational resources, including laboratory gases, dry ice, ethanol or other high-volume supplies, PPE and lab coat laundry services.
• Support inventory control, aggregated demand arrangements, purchasing, goods receipt and delivery coordination, maintaining accurate records as required.
• Coordinate floor-level collection and distribution of glassware and other items sent to or returned from central washing or sterilisation services.
• Work with iCORE Logistics Operations, Glassware Operations, Technology Platform teams and service providers to resolve routine supply and service issues.

Equipment, Assets and Cryogenic Operations

• Provide first-line response to basic equipment or infrastructure faults following training, including safe isolation where required, initial checks and timely escalation.
• Assist with preventive maintenance, servicing, calibration, certification and performance monitoring for shared equipment.
• Maintain accurate equipment and asset records and support equipment relocation, disposal and replacement activities.
• Support the safe operation and routine monitoring of shared ultra-low-temperature freezers, cryostorage systems and liquid nitrogen services in accordance with procedures.

Safety, Compliance and Continuous Improvement

• Follow all applicable laboratory safety, biosafety, chemical safety, waste and emergency response procedures, and actively promote a positive safety culture.
• Coordinate biohazardous, chemical and general laboratory waste activities at floor level, working with the relevant central teams and vendors.
• Participate in inspections, audits, spill response arrangements, safety exercises and business continuity activities.
• Maintain complete and accurate operational logs, checklists and records, and contribute practical ideas to improve workflows, reliability and user experience.

About you

Qualifications and Experience

• Diploma, Nitec or other relevant tertiary qualification in Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Laboratory Technology, Engineering, Facilities or Operations Management, or a related discipline.
• Preferably 1 to 2 years of relevant experience in laboratory operations, research support, scientific facilities, facilities operations or a biomedical R&D environment. Candidates with strong relevant practical training may also be considered.
• Basic familiarity with laboratory equipment, inventory, safety practices or compliance documentation is advantageous.

Skills and Attributes

• Practical, service-oriented and proactive, with a strong commitment to safe and reliable operations.
• Well organised and attentive to detail, with the ability to follow procedures, manage routine priorities and maintain accurate records.
• Able to communicate clearly and respectfully with researchers, colleagues, service providers and other stakeholders.
• Comfortable working independently on assigned tasks while contributing actively as part of a multidisciplinary building team.
• Willing to learn new technical and digital systems and to work across different laboratory environments as operational needs evolve.
• Able to perform practical duties, including the safe movement of supplies or equipment, using appropriate handling techniques and aids.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to help shape a new, centralised laboratory operations model at Geneo and contribute directly to research readiness across the campus.
• Structured training and exposure across laboratory environments, including safety, equipment, operational systems, SOP development and digital workflow improvement.
• A clear career pathway within Central Laboratory Operations and the wider iCORE organisation, with opportunities to broaden technical, operational and leadership capabilities.