- Company Name
- Charles River Laboratories
- Job Title
- Research Associate I
- Job Description
-
Job Title: Research Associate I
Role Summary:
Conduct in vivo rodent work for multiple client research programs, ensuring compliance with animal welfare, IACUC protocols, and study plans. Perform technical procedures, data documentation, and collaborate with veterinary and research teams to support the scientific and regulatory integrity of studies.
Expectations:
* Maintain high standards of animal care and welfare while performing all technical procedures.
* Operate laboratory equipment safely and correctly, following SOPs and regulatory requirements.
* Accurately record, document, and report experimental data in technical notebooks or electronic systems.
* Demonstrate proficiency in essential in vivo techniques (animal handling, dosing, tissue and blood collection, euthanasia).
Key Responsibilities:
1. Handle and restrain rodents using appropriate humane techniques.
2. Perform formulation and dosing calculations; administer test articles via oral gavage, IV, SC, IP, etc.
3. Collect tissues (spleen, liver, etc.) and blood (cardiac puncture, IV) per protocol.
4. Monitor animals for weight, clinical signs, tumor measurements, and overall health.
5. Prepare study set‑up, review IACUC protocols, label collection tubes, and arrange lab spaces.
6. Operate and maintain laboratory equipment (Isoflurane gas, IVIS, irradiators, etc.) under guidance.
7. Maintain accurate laboratory records, ensuring quality data integrity.
8. Perform humane euthanasia in accordance with AVMA and Guide for Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.
9. Report any non‑compliance or welfare concerns to the Animal Welfare Team or IACUC office.
10. Assist veterinary technicians and veterinarians with post‑procedure care and follow‑ups.
11. Participate in required safety, professional development, and on‑the‑job training.
12. Communicate effectively with supervisors, identify procedural deficiencies, and suggest improvements.
Required Skills:
* Proficiency in animal handling, dosing, tissue/blood collection, and basic in vivo techniques.
* Knowledge of IACUC regulations, animal welfare guidelines, and GLP/Non‑GLP study requirements.
* Ability to operate standard laboratory equipment (gas anesthesia, imaging systems).
* Strong data documentation and record‑keeping abilities.
* Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Required Education & Certifications:
* **Option 1**: High School Diploma or GED **and** ≥2 years of lab animal experience **or** AALAS ALAT certification (preferred: basic in vivo skills).
* **Option 2**: Associates or Bachelor's degree in animal or laboratory life sciences (or related field) **and** ≥6–12 months of lab animal experience (preferred: basic in vivo skills and ALAT certification).