Summary

Under supervision, performs a variety of functions necessary in the daily coordination and operation of the small animal-imaging facility (SAIF). Participates in the delivery of high quality, state of the art research techniques and procedures. Responsible for supporting a wide range of animal research. The individual will provide assistance in support of research projects by completing assignments requiring knowledge of fundamental techniques and practices related to preclinical imaging. The individual will work under supervision in accordance with general plans approved by the Co-director of the SAIF.

Job Duties

• Performs research experiments to produce reliable and precise data to support scientific investigations.
• Coordinates ordering, shipping and receiving of research materials.
• Performs other laboratory job related duties as assigned.
• Conducts preclinical computer tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), optical, ultrasound, and microscopic imaging on rodents.
• Prepares animals for imaging procedures and experiments, based upon SOPs for each modality.
• Performs tail vein injections, blood collection, IP injections, and animal dissection.
• Performs routine backups of programs, sequences and files on all computer systems associated with imaging equipment.
• Aseptic cell culture for maintenance and propagation of tumor lines.
• Restrains, bleeds, administers injections, analgesia, assists with necropsies, and euthanasia of rats and mice.
• Ensures imaging facility rooms are sanitized and stocked with necessary supplies.
• Reports equipment malfunctions or repairs and follows up to ensure resolution.
• Maintains daily log of imaging procedures or experiments conducted.
• Interacts with veterinary staff to ensure health and welfare of animals.
• Maintains integrity of the research process, including accurate record keeping, routine animal observations, as well as procurement, processing, and preservation of specimens so as to maintain sampleidentification and prevention of cross contamination under the supervision of the co-director.
• Records and summarizes research data generated from experiments, prepare figures and analyze for presentations and publications.
• Assists with the preparation, revision, and maintenance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for animal procedures.
• Maintains all records in accordance with TCH, BCM, and other regulatory agencies as applicable.
• Inputs imaging and technical service charges into the billing / tracking system.
• Maintains SAIF in compliance with Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH), Baylor College of Medicine (BCM), AAALAC, and other relevant regulations, guidelines and policies.
• Inspects SAIF rooms to assure compliance with all relevant regulations, i.e. TCH, BCM, AAALAC, IACUC.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Basic Science or related field. Four years of related experience may substitute for degree requirement.
• One year of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in basic science or related field preferred.
• Previous experience full time/part time working in research laboratory is preferable.
• Working with animals models, computer skills, demonstrate organizational skills, basic knowledge of animal/human anatomy and physiology.