Lab Animal Research Specialist

About the role

The Laboratory Animal Sciences Program (LASP) at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research is seeking a Lab Animal Research Specialist to join the Animal Research Technical Support (ARTS) team. This role involves working on multiple basic and translational cancer research projects, including tumorigenesis, toxicity, PK/PD, cancer treatment, and vaccine efficacy studies using various animal models.

Responsibilities

• Working closely with senior technical staff to conduct parts of or entire in vivo portions of studies from start to finish.
• Organizing experiments, performing injections, recording and creating detailed study reports, and updates for the investigators.
• Coordinating and communicating study details and scheduling with other core facilities, team members, and management.
• Performing rodent colony management and maintaining a real-time animal colony database (TOPAZ).
• Following breeding strategies based on genotyping results.
• Independently carrying out parts of or complete experimental studies under the guidance of senior staff.
• Administering experimental compounds and chemical carcinogens.
• Performing injections via various routes including s.c., i.p., i.v., and oral gavage.
• Maintaining phenotypes and treatment responses.
• Performing detailed necropsy procedures to collect blood and tissues.
• Collecting and recording tumor measurements and body weights utilizing electronic instruments and databases.
• Working with potentially hazardous radiological, chemical, and biological materials.
• Working in a fast-paced environment with weekend and holiday hours.

Qualifications

• Any combination of education and progressively responsible technical experience which qualifies the candidate to sit for the LATG Certification exam within 12 months of hire or bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or Veterinary Technology.
• Experience in management of genetically engineered mouse models.
• Proficiency in performing rodent related techniques such as injections via various routes, blood and tissue collection.
• Ability to work in a team and communicate with management in a demanding scientific environment.
• Experience in rodent breeding colony management and associated procedures.
• Experience in performing experimental procedures including injections and compound administration.
• Experience working with various tumor models.
• Ability to maintain precise, accurate records utilizing different software platforms.
• Knowledge of standard operating procedures for animal facilities and ACUC guidelines.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and to wear respiratory protection equipment if necessary.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.