Laboratory Animal Resources Technician

Southern Research has been translating science into real-world solutions since 1941. Join our innovative team and contribute to impactful research within the Laboratory Animal Resources (LAR) group.

About the role

This position provides general research support, including the daily care, husbandry, and breeding colony management of ferrets in support of research programs. The Laboratory Animal Resources Technician demonstrates an understanding of scientific research and methods, proficiency in laboratory animal husbandry and technical procedures, and the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

This position reports directly to the Manager, Laboratory Animal Resources.

Responsibilities

• Observes and executes activities consistent with study protocols, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) regulations, and safety and health practices.
• Demonstrates knowledge of basic study design and execution; executes key activities following appropriate procedures.
• Administers test and control materials by various routes, including gavage, capsule, diet/drinking water, intravenous, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, and subcutaneous.
• Gathers and reviews in-life and husbandry data for various study types, including body weights, clinical observations, and food consumption.
• Performs reproductive-specific procedures, including pairing, vaginal lavage, estrous stage identification, handling pregnant and nursing animals; handling, sexing, identification, weaning, and vaccination of ferret kits.
• Handles and restrains ferrets and other species (e.g., rodents, dogs, non-human primates, rabbits) in animal biosafety levels 1, 2, or 3, as required.
• Assists in the training of new team members on laboratory techniques.
• Collects samples and specimens; observes, records, and reports abnormal findings to the veterinarian.
• Performs animal identification procedures and assists in surgeries.
• Performs animal necropsies and harvests various tissues as directed per study protocol.
• Proficiently sets up and reviews study files in the Provantis data collection system; performs electronic randomization procedures.
• Creates and revises forms and SOPs as necessary.
• Administers various types of anesthesia and performs euthanasia of animals.
• Records and reviews in-life and husbandry data in the Provantis system.
• Acts as study lead as assigned (organizing study supplies, paperwork, and ensuring protocol compliance).
• Completes other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field with at least 2 years of related laboratory experience.
• Ability to observe safety and study requirements by reading, understanding, and following SOPs, GLP requirements, and study protocols.
• Ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in relevant MS Office Suite products.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including an N95 respirator or PAPR for extended periods.
• Ability to work well in a team environment; available for overtime, rotating weekends, and holidays.
• Demonstrated knowledge and application of standard scientific principles, theories, and concepts; ability to learn new tasks.
• Ability to meet all entry requirements, including medical and vaccination requirements for work in ABSL-2 and ABSL-3 laboratory environments. Immunizations (e.g., Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Smallpox, Polio, Yellow Fever, Influenza) are required and determined by study/agent.

Skills

• Planning and Organization: Systematically identifies issues and plans courses of action for self and others to accomplish objectives.
• Attention to Detail: Utilizes monitoring systems, records data accurately and timely, and ensures data integrity.
• Communication: Effectively communicates verbally and in writing.
• Quality Orientation: Follows procedures, ensures high-quality outputs, and takes corrective action.

Physical Demands

• Standing, walking, or climbing for extended periods.
• Sitting for extended periods without leaving the work area.
• Pushing/pulling up to 100 lbs.
• Lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Performing repetitive and strenuous activities requiring standing, stooping, or crouching.
• Withstanding exposure to constant or intermittent high noise levels.
• Clear vision with corrective lenses at 20 feet or more.
• Fine motor skills and manual dexterity.
• Wearing a respirator for extended periods.
• Performing computer work for extended periods.
• Withstanding exposure to constant or intermittent high temperatures/humidity.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) match.
• Life insurance.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Employee assistance program.

Certifications & Work Authorization

• ALAT, LAT, or LATG certification preferred but not required.
• Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. Sponsorship for employment visas is not available at this time.

Core Values

• Cultivating human connection: Putting people first; fostering an inclusive and courageous team where innovation and diversity of thought thrive.
• Operating with precise execution: Leveraging data to drive decisions; holding ourselves accountable and taking pride in our work.
• Harnessing relentless curiosity: Driven to ask sharp questions and push boundaries; learning by doing and striving for improvement.
• Stewarding a healthy community: Prioritizing safety and health; respecting the dignity of patients and serving underserved communities.