Lab Operations Technician

About the role

PsychoGenics is a preclinical CRO with expertise in central nervous system (CNS) and orphan disorders. Our mission is to provide the best validated disease models and comprehensive preclinical capabilities to help companies discover the next generation of treatments for severely disabling CNS and orphan disorders and reduce the attrition rate in clinical development. We are known for our cutting-edge translational approach to research, our customized solutions, the breadth, and quality of our work, as well as for our ability to identify statistically relevant phenotypic changes that help our clients quantify the efficacy of their treatments before they move into the clinic. With an extensive portfolio of highly predictive disease models and unparalleled experience performing studies for biopharmaceutical companies of all sizes, we enable clients to deliver much needed superior clinical candidates to patients.

The Lab Operations Technician is responsible for coordinating and executing the shipment, receipt, tracking, and documentation of biological samples, study materials, test articles, laboratory supplies, and live animals. This position serves as the primary logistics resource supporting domestic and international shipments while ensuring compliance with applicable regulatory, client, carrier, and company requirements. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate effectively with Study Directors, Project Managers, Vivarium Operations, Laboratory Operations, clients, vendors, couriers, and regulatory agencies.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate domestic and international shipments of biological samples, tissue specimens, compounds, test articles, laboratory supplies, and study materials.
• Prepare, review, and maintain shipment documentation including, but not limited to:
  • Chain of custody forms
  • Commercial invoices
  • Customs declarations
  • Health certificates
  • Import/export regulatory permits including USDA
  • Shipment manifests and box maps
• Schedule courier pickups and deliveries and communicate shipment details to internal and external stakeholders.
• Track shipments in transit and proactively address delays, customs holds, or delivery exceptions.
• Ensure shipments are packaged in accordance with client requirements and applicable regulations.
• Coordinate replenishment and availability of shipping supplies including dry ice, insulated shippers, labels, and packaging materials.
• Maintain complete shipment records and archives.
• Ensure all logistics activities comply with company SOPs, client requirements, international shipping regulations, and applicable animal transport standards.
• Maintain accurate records of permits, shipping documentation, and regulatory correspondence.
• Assist in development and revision of logistics-related SOPs, forms, and training materials.
• Coordinate domestic and international transportation of research animals with approved vendors, breeders, quarantine facilities, and carriers.
• Work closely with Vivarium Operations to schedule animal arrivals and departures.
• Ensure required permits, health documentation, veterinary certificates, and transportation records are completed and maintained.
• Monitor animal shipment status and communicate shipment updates to stakeholders.
• Assist with contingency planning and response to transportation delays or unexpected logistical issues.
• Assist with sample tube preparation, labeling, and organization.
• Maintain clean and organized laboratory workspaces.
• Support equipment service scheduling and maintenance activities.
• Assist with freezer, refrigerator, and storage inventory management.
• Participate in audits and inspections as required.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree with relevant laboratory or logistics experience or a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Life Sciences, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or related field.
• Experience coordinating domestic and international shipments.