Animal Research Post Approval Monitor Specialist (PAM)

Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas is a land grant institution, classified by the Carnegie Foundation among the nation’s top 2 percent of universities with the highest level of research activity. The university works to advance Arkansas and build a better world through education, research, and outreach by providing transformational opportunities and skills, fostering a welcoming climate, and nurturing creativity, discovery, and the spread of new ideas and innovations.

About the Role

The Post-Approval Monitoring (PAM) program is a collaborative partnership between the animal research compliance office (within Research Integrity and Compliance (RSIC)), the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), and animal users. The program is designed to help investigators achieve their scientific objectives while promoting the highest standards of animal welfare, facilitating compliance with institutional and federal requirements, and fostering a culture of ethical animal care and continuous compliance.

The Animal Research Post Approval Monitor Specialist works collaboratively with investigators and laboratory personnel to confirm that animal research activities are conducted in accordance with approved IACUC protocols, institutional policies, applicable federal regulations, and the principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement).

Responsibilities

• Conduct protocol and laboratory reviews, observe research activities, and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Provide education and guidance to support ongoing compliance through a collaborative, quality-improvement approach.
• Identify trends in non-compliance, deficiencies, and Suggestions For Improvements (SFIs).
• Facilitate the implementation and tracking of corrective and preventative action plans to resolution.
• Maintain current knowledge of applicable regulations, guidelines, and best practices governing the care and use of animals in research.
• Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is essential, as is the ability to create and maintain collegial working relationships.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in animal science, biological science, life science, nursing, or a related field.
• At least one year of direct experience in an animal research environment, compliance role, or working closely with an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) program.

Qualifications

• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master’s degree or higher in a life science field.
  • Professional degree or certification such as Certified Professional IACUC Administrator (CPIA), Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT), Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT), or Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG).
  • At least four years of professional experience specifically focused on post-approval monitoring (PAM), research compliance auditing, or managing animal research training programs within an academic or complex institutional setting.
  • Experience and working knowledge of federal regulations governing animal research (e.g., OLAW, USDA Animal Welfare Act) and AAALAC international accreditation standards.
  • Experience with reviewing, interpreting, and auditing complex technical documentation, laboratory records, and research protocols.
  • Direct experience handling corrective and preventive action (CAPA) plans from development through to verified resolution.
  • A proven track record of effectively collaborating with researchers, veterinary staff, and administrative committees to resolve non-compliance or procedural discrepancies.
  • Experience implementing hands-on or didactic training programs for research personnel.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Advanced understanding of the "3Rs" ethical framework.
  • Familiarity with institutional research compliance databases and electronic protocol submission systems.

Benefits

• University contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance.
• Tuition waivers for employees and their families.
• 12 official holidays and immediate leave accrual.
• Choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10% of employee salary.

Pay

$61,735 - $69,000