Laboratory Animal Research Assistant

**This is a FULL-TIME, CONTRACTUAL position**

The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) - Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery has an exciting opportunity for a Laboratory Animal Research Assistant to work on inner ear related projects in the department research labs.

The Laboratory Animal Research Assistant is responsible for performing animal research activities and animal clinical care in a laboratory setting with a variety of species. Work is performed in accordance with animal welfare regulations, USDA, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, Public Health Services (PHS), Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), Association for assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC), and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) guidelines. This individual will be responsible for performing visual function assessment in mouse models, characterize their retinal structure and function, as well as perform other cell biology experiments. The individual will be working closely with a graduate student on a daily basis with oversight from the PI.

UMB is Ranked Among the 2022 Best Employers for Diversity by Forbes.

BENEFITS (Contractual/C2 Employee):

UMB offers a comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes wellness, work/life balance, and professional development. Contingent Category II staff receive a generous leave package that includes over 2 weeks of vacation each year, paid holidays, personal leave, sick time, and time for community service; subsidized comprehensive health insurance and supplemental retirement options; professional learning and development programs; limited tuition remission for employees enrolled at UMB; life insurance and long-term disability; and flexible work schedules and teleworking options (if applicable per job).

PRIMARY DUTIES:

• Perform advanced laboratory research activities on variety of animals species such as: testing their hearing function, live mouse imaging, viral vector-based gene delivery in the middle and inner ear, perform animal surgery, post-operative care, implantation or placement of medical devices, administration of pharmaceuticals and nutrients, including anesthesia, and perform euthanasia process. May participate in the design of research studies.
• Perform routine laboratory maintenance and research activities such as: general housekeeping, collection of cultures and biological specimens for diagnostic testing and monitoring of animal health, and executing biochemical procedures such as: electrophoresis, blotting, chromatography, immunohistochemistry, and confocal imaging, etc. May require performing psychological enrichment of certain species.
• Compile and may analyze research data using various relevant computer software applications.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Assist with literature research, editing and preparing manuscripts, scientific illustrations and computer graphics for publication.
• Perform immunohistochemistry studies in animal models.
• May perform administrative duties such as: training and guiding students and/or other laboratory technicians; assisting in developing policies, procedures and/or methods for laboratory experimentation; and ordering supplies.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Bachelor's degree in biology, agriculture, veterinary science, biochemistry, chemistry, or field of study related to the animal science.

Experience: N/A.

Preferred Experience: At least one (1) year of experience in a field directly related to the research of the clinic or laboratory, as appropriate.

Supervisory Experience: N/A.

Certification/Licensure: Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) or Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) preferred.

Other: May consider a combination of directly related experience and education.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES

Knowledge of position requirements. Knowledge of all applicable requirements, regulations, and laws. Skill in effective use of applicable technology/systems. Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts. Ability to work cooperatively with others and independently. Ability to demonstrate, understand, apply, and adhere to the UMB Core Values of Respect and Integrity, Well-being and Sustainability, Equity and Justice, and Innovation and Discovery.

Hiring Range: $46,000 - $50,000 per year (Commensurate with education and experience)

UMB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy. For assistance related to employment, please contact the Staffing department at [email protected].

If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation for a disability under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), during any part of the employment process, please submit a UMB Job Applicant Accommodation Request. You may also contact [email protected]. Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.