Research Assoc I (req1702)

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Laboratory Animal Sciences Program (LASP) provides exceptional quality animal care and technical support services for animal research performed at the National Cancer Institute at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. LASP executes this mission by providing a broad spectrum of state-of-the-art technologies and services that are focused on the design, generation, characterization and application of genetically engineered and biological animal models of human disease, which are aimed at the development of targeted diagnostics and therapies. LASP contributes to advancing human health, developing new treatments, and improving existing treatments for cancer and other diseases while ensuring safe and humane treatment of animals.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

* Management and execution of numerous, concurrent research studies utilizing nonhuman primate (NHP) models
* Managing protocol schedules to achieve successful experimental conduct while maximizing the use of staff/facility resources
* Monitoring NHP animal study protocols to ensure compliance with ACUC approved procedures and animal numbers
* Performance of specialized experimental procedures utilizing nonhuman primates including administration of drugs, pre-surgical preparation, minor surgical biopsies, BAL, bone marrow collection, anesthesia monitoring, post-surgical care
* Drafting animal study proposals and modifications to support ongoing and new research endeavors
* Observing and recording physical signs of nonhuman primate health and record data
* Maintaining a proper living environment for nonhuman primates including enrichment, behavioral assessment, social housing and training

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

* Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university in a field related to biomedical research or four (4) years equivalent experience in the appropriate field in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
* In addition to educational requirements, a minimum of two (2) years progressively responsible job-related biomedical experience
* Must be able to function independently in an animal research facility environment, and in support of investigators engaged in animal research
* Previous experience in handling nonhuman primates in a research facility including a variety of experimental procedures
* Ability to multitask, coordinate protocol schedules, and perform a variety of technical procedures on nonhuman primates
* Ability to maintain precise, accurate records
* Knowledge of standard operating procedures for animal facilities and the basic requirements for maintaining laboratory animals and performing scientific procedures involving animal testing and data collection
* Computer and writing skills
* Must participate in the occupational health program, medical health screenings, and similar.Must understand that the position has the risk for exposure to zoonotic agents as well as other hazardous agents or chemicals
* Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration

* Excellent observation and organization skills
* Experience in performing surgical procedures on NHPs
* Basic necropsy techniques
* Excellent written and oral communications skills
* Experience with other laboratory animal species including mice, rats, and aquatics

JOB HAZARDS

* This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to animal(s) and/or animal material(s)
* This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations
* This position is subject to atmospheric conditions that would require the usage of a respirator, requiring a medical clearance
* This position is subject to working in or have the potential to exposure to high noise levels for extended periods of time requiring medical clearance
* This position is subject to the environmental conditions such as working outdoors, high humidity areas indoors, dampness and chilling, dry atmospheric conditions, etc. as part of the job
* This position is subject to working with radioactive material and requires to become an approved radiation worker