Laboratory Specialist, Chemistry

Khalifa University is a world-class, research-intensive institution in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The University’s mission is to seamlessly integrate research and education to produce world leaders and critical thinkers in science, engineering, and medicine, and also to be a catalyst towards Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision for a knowledge-based economy. Khalifa University has two campuses in the city of Abu Dhabi – the KU Main Campus and the Sas Al Nakhl Campus, the latter housing two of KU’s flagship research institutes: Masdar Institute and Petroleum Institute.

The Laboratory Specialist assists with the day-to-day operation and coordination of the laboratories under the supervision of the senior lab specialist, chair of department, and faculty members.

Operational Responsibilities

Laboratory Classes

• Provide lab support for a range of courses at various levels to ensure that instructional delivery complies with the quality and educational standards of the department/program
• Ensure preparation of the laboratory so that classes can operate efficiently, effectively and safely
• Instruct students in the appropriate parts of the course in collaboration with faculty members, including evaluation of students, grading of work and providing feedback to students
• Maintain accurate and timely student records
• Assist in writing lab manuals, procedures, and safety instructions in coordination with the course instructor and/or Chair
• Contribute to course evaluation and development of new course materials

Laboratory Operations

• Ensure that all equipment is maintained, serviced, and repaired as required
• Train faculty and students and junior technicians in the use of equipment and techniques
• Maintain inventories and current and future stock requirements of equipment and consumables
• Identify requirements and equipment specifications, and assist with the procurement process for supplies and major equipment
• Coordinate with suppliers to obtain quotations and follow up with Finance and Administration for contract preparation/renewal and for payments
• Ensure accurate completion of documentation, records and reports

Health and Safety

• Monitor and maintain a safe working environment in accordance with Health and Safety procedures
• Ensure that laboratory operations are conducted safely including storage of chemicals and materials and proper disposal of hazardous wastes
• Ensure that students, staff and faculty follow appropriate Health and Safety policies and Codes of Conduct

Other Responsibilities

• Adhere to the University’s information security and confidentiality policies and procedures, and report breaches or other security risks
• Coordinate with other departments to facilitate the accomplishment of tasks and responsibilities, as and when needed;
• Perform any other tasks commensurate with the job grade assigned by the Line Manager

Required Qualifications

• At least a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

Required Experience

• Expats: A minimum of 5-7 years of relevant experience.
• UAE Nationals: A minimum of 0-1 year of relevant experience

Preferred Experience 

• Experience in educational lab supervision at a top-ranked university, preferably including the use of instructional technology.
• A Master’s degree in Chemical Science along with experience of operating one or more analytical instruments (e.g. chromatography, diffraction) would be an advantage