Research Technician - Behavior Science
About the role
We make pet food taste great! For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people. Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents. Join AFB and you'll be a part of a team of highly skilled professionals that provide the greatest contribution to our success as an organization. Our team members are diverse, creative, passionate experts who are genuinely dedicated to our mission, our customers, and the pets we serve worldwide.
The Research Technician supports behavior, palatability, and novel research trials involving cats and dogs. This role is responsible for executing study protocols, collecting and coding behavioral and novel data, monitoring animal participation and health, analyzing trial results and presenting to the internal team. The Research Technician collaborates with Trial Execution Technicians and supports animal husbandry activities as workload allows.
Responsibilities
- Execute behavioral, palatability, and novel research trials in accordance with approved protocols.
- Conduct trial activities, including feeding, weighing animal rations, and operating commercial dishwashers.
- Operate specialized equipment to evaluate feeding enjoyment and preference in dogs and cats.
- Collect, code, and analyze behavior trial data using The Observer, LIMS, and Excel.
- Summarize, interpret, and report novel and behavior trial data to project leads or scientists.
- Monitor animals’ health, behavior, and participation across studies; identify and communicate concerns and recommended countermeasures.
- Support animal welfare through adherence to IACUC approved protocols.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of methods, metrics, and research practices, including IACUC protocol development and revisions.
- Assist Trial Execution Technicians and perform animal husbandry duties as required.
- Other duties as assigned.