Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: SOP • Bioavailability • PK/PD

LIMS

Term from Pharmaceutical Services industry explained for recruiters

LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is a software tool that helps laboratories organize and track their work. Think of it as a smart digital assistant that manages lab samples, test results, and reports. Just like how a business uses software to track orders and inventory, laboratories use LIMS to keep track of samples, tests, and results. This system helps ensure that lab work is done correctly, results are recorded accurately, and everything follows proper quality standards. It's especially important in places like pharmaceutical companies, research labs, and medical testing facilities where accuracy and proper documentation are crucial.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented and managed LIMS system for a team of 50 laboratory staff

Trained laboratory personnel on Laboratory Information Management System workflows

Customized LIMS reports and workflows to meet FDA compliance requirements

Typical job title: "LIMS Specialists"

Also try searching for:

LIMS Administrator Laboratory Systems Specialist LIMS Coordinator Lab Information Systems Analyst LIMS Manager Laboratory Informatics Specialist

Where to Find LIMS Specialists

Professional Networks

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a LIMS implementation across multiple laboratory sites?

Expected Answer: Should discuss project management approach, understanding different lab needs, training programs, data migration strategies, and ensuring consistent processes across sites while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Q: How do you ensure LIMS compliance with FDA regulations?

Expected Answer: Should explain understanding of FDA requirements like 21 CFR Part 11, audit trails, electronic signatures, data integrity, and validation procedures.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you train laboratory staff who are resistant to using new LIMS software?

Expected Answer: Should discuss training approaches, showing benefits of the system, addressing concerns, providing documentation, and ongoing support strategies.

Q: How do you handle sample tracking in LIMS?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic sample lifecycle management, barcode systems, chain of custody, and how to maintain sample integrity throughout testing process.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of LIMS in a laboratory setting?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic functions like sample tracking, data management, report generation, and how LIMS helps maintain laboratory organization and efficiency.

Q: How do you handle basic troubleshooting in LIMS?

Expected Answer: Should discuss checking system logs, documenting issues, basic problem-solving steps, and when to escalate problems to senior staff or vendors.