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SAIC-Frederick, Inc.’s Laboratory Animal Sciences Program (LASP) provides exceptional quality animal care and technical support services for animal research performed at the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The LASP contributes to improving human health, developing new treatments, and improving existing treatments for cancer and other diseases while ensuring safe and humane treatment of animals. The Research Associate I will be responsible for carrying out, documenting, and reporting the results of a variety of complex biomedical procedures performed in an animal (rodent) facility in support of multiple investigators. Specifically, the position will perform gross necropsy and collect various tissues with or without aseptic techniques; prepare experimental reagents for treatment of animals using carcinogens, toxins, biologicals, chemicals, and radioisotopes, which may involve dose calculations. Primary duties also include the management of mouse breeding colonies consisting of multiple, genetically complex strains, including the maintenance of a real-time database of the animal colonies, weaning, tail clipping, ear tagging, superovulation and plug checking. Technical proficiency, judgment and organizational skills are required in order to effectively manage a significant and complex workload. Assignments are performed independently with minimal direct supervision and following all applicable regulations, policies, procedures and standards governing animal welfare. The incumbent may be responsible for supervising or training of lower level technical personnel. Work may involve the use of potentially hazardous material or may be located in areas where such materials are used. Work may require the use of personal protective equipment and adherence to strict safety protocols. Working hours are from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm.
REQUIRED SKILLS: Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university in a field related to the biomedical or veterinary sciences or four (4) years equivalent experience in the appropriate field in lieu of degree. Foreign educated candidates who have completed part or all of their education outside of the United States must have their foreign education evaluated by an SAIC-approved accrediting organization to assure that it has met the equivalency of the qualifications of degree work in the United States. In addition to educational requirements, a minimum of two (2) years of animal technical experience. Ability to carry out a variety of diverse research procedures that relate to the management and genetic analysis of a rodent colony. Must possess an understanding of Mendelian genetics in addition to experience in rodent breeding colony management and associated procedures. Outstanding organizational, observational and computer/data entry skills are required. Ability to maintain precise, accurate records. Knowledge of Standard Operating Procedures for animal facilities and the basic requirements for maintaining laboratory animals and performing scientific procedures involving animal testing and data collection. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and to wear respiratory protection equipment if necessary. This position is subject to obtaining a Public Trust Clearance.
DESIRED SKILLS: Knowledge and/or experience with genotyping services. Basic skills or ability to quickly learn to perform injections via various routes, blood collection and tissue harvesting.
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