Small Lab Animal Research Specialist

Small Lab Animal Research Specialist

Job ID: req4383
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Laboratory Animal Science Program
Facility: Frederick: Ft Detrick
Location: PO Box B, Frederick, MD 21702 USA

The Frederick National Laboratory is operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. The lab addresses some of the most urgent and intractable problems in the biomedical sciences in cancer and AIDS, drug development and first-in-human clinical trials, applications of nanotechnology in medicine, and rapid response to emerging threats of infectious diseases.

Accountability, Compassion, Collaboration, Dedication, Integrity and Versatility; it's the FNL way.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Laboratory Animal Sciences Program (LASP) provides exceptional quality animal care and technical support services for animal research performed at the National Cancer Institute at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. LASP executes this mission by providing a broad spectrum of state-of-the-art technologies and services focused on the design, generation, characterization, and application of genetically engineered and biological animal models of human disease. The Animal Research Technical Support (ARTS) team within LASP utilizes advanced methodologies to perform research into the development of new cancer models, targeted diagnostics, and cancer therapies.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Lab Animal Research Specialist, you will be working closely with a diverse team in a fast-paced environment on multiple basic and translational cancer research projects simultaneously. Types of studies include tumorigenesis, toxicity, PK/PD, cancer treatment and vaccine efficacy studies on xenograft/allograft, PDX, or genetically engineered mouse models. Responsibilities include working closely with senior technical staff on conducting parts of or entire in vivo portions of studies from start to finish, including organizing experiments, performing injections, recording and creating detailed study reports, and updates for the investigators. Lab Animal Research Specialists help coordinate and communicate study details and scheduling with other core facilities, team members, and management. Specific responsibilities include:

• Performing rodent colony management and maintenance of 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.
• Administration of experimental compounds and chemical carcinogens.
• Performing injections via various routes including s.c., i.p., i.v., and oral gavage.
• Monitoring 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.
• This is a change-in facility.
• Work schedule may include weekend and holiday hours.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

• Possession of Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or Veterinary Technology from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or 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 in lieu of degree. Will encourage achievement of LATG Certification, however this is not required. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency.
• No work experience required with a Bachelor's degree.
• 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.
• Excellent time management and organization skills; ability to multi-task and work under time constraints.
• Excellent written and oral communications skills.
• 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.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Experience with cancer treatment or vaccine studies in rodents.
• Experience preparing medicated water and chemicals.
• LAT certification and ability to pass LATG exam within 12 months of hire.

Job Hazards

• This position is subject to atmospheric conditions that would require the usage of a respirator, requiring a medical clearance.
• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to
  animal(s) and/or animal material(s).
• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to
  infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, color, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available here

46,900.00 - 80,500.00 USD

The posted pay range for this job is a general guideline and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include, but are not limited to, responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as internal equity, and alignment with market data.

The salary range posted is a full-time equivalent salary and will vary depending on scheduled hours for part time positions