Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Animal Care and Preclinical Technician’s job duties will be twofold. First, this position will be responsible for maintaining the daily care and welfare of Exemplar Genetics’ animals. This includes feeding, breeding, farrowing, facilitating environmental enrichment/socialization, and cleaning. Second, this position will assist in carrying out various preclinical research protocols including in vivo pharmacokinetic studies to efficacy-based studies in minipig models of human disease for evaluating novel therapeutics as part of a drug discovery service for Exemplar Genetics’ clients. This involves surgical manipulations, behavioural observation, dosing and sample collections. Exemplar Genetics is a science-based company and requires accurate data records and documentation. All animal care must be conducted in compliance with the requirements and expectations of USDA, AAALAC, FDA, NIH and other relevant agencies. This position offers competitive wages, benefits, and bonus opportunities for qualified candidates.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Animal Care and Welfare

• Provide daily care for minipigs, including feeding, watering, and general husbandry.
• Monitor animal health and behavior, promptly reporting any abnormalities to the veterinary staff.
• Ensure the physical and environmental conditions meet regulatory and ethical standards for animal welfare.

Preclinical Research Support

• Assist in the preparation and conduct of preclinical research studies involving minipigs.
• Collect biological samples (e.g., blood, tissue, urine) following standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Administer medications, anesthetics, and other treatments under veterinary supervision.

Data Collection and Documentation

• Record detailed and accurate data related to animal care, study procedures, and sample collection.
• Maintain laboratory records and logs in compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) guidelines.
• Assist in preparing reports and summaries for research studies.

Facility Maintenance and Compliance

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of animal housing areas, surgical suites, and laboratories.
• Ensure all equipment is properly sterilized, calibrated, and maintained.
• Comply with all institutional, local, and federal regulations related to animal research.

Team Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with veterinarians, scientists, and other research staff to ensure the success of studies.
• Participate in training sessions and stay current with best practices in animal care and research techniques.
• Communicate effectively to support a collaborative and productive research environment.

Health and Safety

• Adhere to biosafety and occupational health guidelines when handling animals, biological samples, and equipment.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow protocols to ensure the safety of personnel and animals.

Continuous Improvement

• Contribute to the development and refinement of SOPs for animal care and research procedures.
• Stay informed about advancements in preclinical research methodologies and animal care practices.

This role requires a commitment to high ethical standards, attention to detail, and a passion for contributing to impactful preclinical research.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• BS/BA in Animal Science or other related field, or equivalent experience is required.
• Training in laboratory procedures and animal care guidelines (AWA and AAALAC) is preferred.
• Prior experience in neonatal piglet and adult pig care is preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook is required.

DESIRED KEY COMPETENCIES

• Excellent communication skills
• Desire to ensure the welfare of animals
• Willingness to learn and follow animal welfare regulations
• Good interpersonal skills
• Teamwork oriented
• Attention to detail
• Mechanical aptitude

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to be on your feet a majority of working hours
• Ability to lift, carry and reach for items at least 50 lbs
• Willingness to take multiple showers daily as required by biosecurity measures

• Willingness to work rotational weekends and holidays

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