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: 1. Foster a culture of playful experimentation with creative technologies, encouraging hands-on problem-solving and innovation. 2. Curate events, activities, and challenges that inspire interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation practice. 3. Build a strong community of creators, cultivate a dynamic and inclusive environment by promoting collaboration among students, faculty, and staff. 4. Encourage interdisciplinary projects that leverage diverse expertise from across DKU’s community. 5. 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: 1. Develop comprehensive tutorials, website content, and handbooks for lab equipment and emerging technologies. 2. Design and facilitate workshops and co-curricular activities to educate students on various technologies. 3. Mentor lab users by offering guidance on projects, helping troubleshoot challenges, and encouraging innovative approaches. 4. Provide guidance and support to users, helping them develop their technical and creative skills. 5. Train and supervise student workers, ensuring they provide assistance and maintain lab operations efficiently. Lab Operation and Administration: 1. Oversee the operation of the space, ensuring the proper use and maintenance of all equipment. 2. Develop and enforce safety protocols and provide safety training to all users. 3. Ensure the lab remains open, accessible, and functional during operational hours. 4. Develop budgets and allocate resources effectively to support the Co-Lab’s mission. 5. Monitor inventory and maintain supplies and materials for ongoing lab activities. 6. Responsible for procurement and setup of various equipment in the Space. Branding and Marketing: 1. Build the lab’s brand as an innovative hub for creativity and technology, enhancing its visibility both within and outside the DKU community. 2. Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the Co-Lab’s activities, workshops, and events. 3. Collaborate with university communications teams to highlight the lab’s impact and contributions through various channels. 4. Perform other duties as the lab grows and complexity. 5. 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: 1. The candidate should at least possess an undergraduate degree. A graduate degree is preferred. 2. A master’s degree in an engineering or design field involving mechanics, digital fabrication, robotics, human-machine interactions, or relevant fields. 3. Five years of relevant working experience in managing or working in a maker space or similar collaborative environments. 4. Strong organizational and project management skills. 5. 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). 6. Programming skills in C++, Python or Matlab for human-machine interface. 7. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated commitment to inclusivity and community building. 8. Ability to train and mentor students and staff with varying levels of technical expertise. 9. Self-motivated, entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to quickly innovate and iterate. 10. Ability to handle ambiguity 11. English speaking and writing skills for effective communication. How to Apply: Please be advised the salary is commensurate with experience. Please submit your formal application by searching the position on DKU recruitment portal.
