You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job.

Lab Manager for the Co-Lab

Duke Kunshan University
Email

Position Overview:

Duke Kunshan University (DKU) is a Sino-US Joint Venture University approved by the Ministry of Education and co-founded by Duke University, Wuhan University and Kunshan City Government. DKU is a non-profit public welfare social organization with independent legal status. The campus is located in Kunshan Yangcheng Lake Science Park, Jiangsu Province. 

The Co-Lab at Duke Kunshan University aims to build a vibrant atmosphere that emphasizes Innovation, Community, Collaboration, and Accessibility. It encourages various activities of creation and knowledge sharing among all members of our community.  We seek a passionate, organized, and forward-thinking Lab Manager to lead the Co-Lab.  The Lab Manager will be responsible for managing the daily operations of the lab, ensuring accessibility for all users; cultivating a vibrant, inclusive environment that encourages innovation and collaboration; driving the branding and marketing efforts of the lab to enhance its impact; as well as mentoring students on various projects and technologies.

 

Reports to:

Associate Director for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

 

Essential Duties:

Innovative Culture and Community Building: 

  • Foster a culture of playful experimentation with creative technologies, encouraging hands-on problem-solving and innovation.
  • Curate events, activities, and challenges that inspire interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation practice.
  • Build a strong community of creators, cultivate a dynamic and inclusive environment by promoting collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. 
  • Encourage interdisciplinary projects that leverage diverse expertise from across DKU’s community.
  • Act as a liaison between Co-Lab members and other departments to support students activities, teaching and research, as well new initiatives.

Training and Mentorship:

  • Develop comprehensive tutorials, website content, and handbooks for lab equipment and emerging technologies.
  • Design and facilitate workshops and co-curricular activities to educate students on various technologies.
  • Mentor lab users by offering guidance on projects, helping troubleshoot challenges, and encouraging innovative approaches.
  • Provide guidance and support to users, helping them develop their technical and creative skills.
  • Train and supervise student workers, ensuring they provide assistance and maintain lab operations efficiently.

Lab Operation and Administration: 

  • Oversee the operation of the space, ensuring the proper use and maintenance of all equipment.
  • Develop and enforce safety protocols and provide safety training to all users.
  • Ensure the lab remains open, accessible, and functional during operational hours.
  • Develop budgets and allocate resources effectively to support the Co-Lab’s mission.
  • Monitor inventory and maintain supplies and materials for ongoing lab activities.
  • Responsible for procurement and setup of various equipment in the Space. 

Branding and Marketing:

  • Build the lab’s brand as an innovative hub for creativity and technology, enhancing its visibility both within and outside the DKU community.
  • Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the Co-Lab’s activities, workshops, and events.
  • Collaborate with university communications teams to highlight the lab’s impact and contributions through various channels.
  • Perform other duties as the lab grows and complexity.
  • University employees' job responsibilities will continue to expand in scope and depth as the University grows in size and complexity in its programs.

 

Required Qualifications:

  • The candidate should at least possess an undergraduate degree. A graduate degree is preferred.
  • A master’s degree in an engineering or design field involving mechanics, digital fabrication, robotics, human-machine interactions, or relevant fields.
  • Five years of relevant working experience in managing or working in a maker space or similar collaborative environments.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills.
  • Technical expertise in design and digital fabrication, electronics, or related maker technologies, such as laser cut, CNC, 3D scanning, 3D printing, VR, CAD tools and ROS (Robot operation system). 
  • Programming skills in C++, Python or Matlab for human-machine interface.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated commitment to inclusivity and community building.
  • Ability to train and mentor students and staff with varying levels of technical expertise. 
  • Self-motivated, entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to quickly innovate and iterate.
  • Ability to handle ambiguity
  • English speaking and writing skills for effective communication.