Lead Animal Lab Technician

Observes, feeds, transfers, tests, restrains, and administers pharmaceuticals to laboratory animals, maintains laboratory, collects samples, and maintains records. The applicant will work on mechanisms of pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementias using rodent models.  For more information please see the PI’s web page (https://medicine.ouhsc.edu/academic-departments/biochemistry-and-physiology/faculty/veronica-galvan-hart-phd ) and the laboratory's web page (https://www.galvanlab.org/).

Duties:

• Observes animals for early manifestations of disease such as rapid or labored breathing, or lethargy and reports to designated personnel. 
• Examines incoming animals to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Rejects unsuitable animals. 
• Provides food and water to laboratory animals. 
• Prepares special diets by weighing and combining ingredients. 
• Transfers animals from soiled to clean enclosures, etc., protecting individual identity of animals. 
• Ensures laboratory has stable temperature and humidity levels.
• Remains alert to elements in the environment that might adversely affect the health and stability of the animals. 
• Ensures all equipment, bedding, and cages are clean and in working condition. 
• Reports any problems or deviations to designated personnel. 
• Collects blood, tissue, or fluid samples from animals. 
• Restrains animals for examination or injection. 
• Administers pharmaceutical or biological products through intramuscular, subcutaneous, oral, or topical route.
• Maintains detailed records of observations and activities such as breeding cycles, reproduction, isotope usage, behavior, and health status.   
• Performs routine laboratory testing such as urinalysis, blood count, and examination for parasites. 
• Acts as the lead Laboratory Animal Technician for the laboratory by answering questions, serving as an example employee, etc. 
• Follows safety procedures and requests assistance if wok deviates from routine to ensure standard policies and practices are followed.
• Attends training sessions to include radiation safety, laboratory safety, blood borne pathogens, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
• Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

Required Education: High School diploma or GED., AND:

• 30 Months Experience caring for laboratory animals.

Skills:

• Knowledge of all applicable requirements, regulations, and laws.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and with a team.
• Ability to identify, address issues and deficiencies, and implement effective solutions.
• Ability to handle all types of animals.
• Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.

Working Conditions:

• Physical:
  • Standing for long periods of time.
  • Lifting up to 30 pounds on a regular basis.
  • Reaching, stooping, and bending. Manual dexterity.
• Environmental:
  • Works in an Animal Facility.
  • Handling all types of animals which bite and scratch.
  • Exposure to animal dander and odors.

Certifications: An American Association of Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) Certification as a Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT).

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