Laboratory Animal Research Specialist

The University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) has an opening for a Laboratory Animal Research Specialist to work in the Department of Psychiatry’s Division of Translational and Basic Science Research. The individual hired for this position will be responsible for providing the highest technical expertise to research project(s) and overseeing and managing laboratory research activities in a laboratory setting studying the pharmacology and neuroscience underlying antidepressant drug action. This role will require working with laboratory rodents. 

This is a Full-time, Contractual position.

For more information, please visit gouldlab.org.

DEI Values/Commitment Statement:
The Department of Psychiatry is committed to actively examining, identifying, and addressing systemic racism and structural inequality, and agrees to an ongoing commitment of re-creating and improving the department culture as it relates to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our priorities include establishing processes that will lead to long term sustainable gains in both faculty and staff recruitment and retention, increasing diverse representation in leadership positions for both faculty and staff, and continuing the work of improving the climate of inclusivity. We are committed to learning, healing, and growing together.

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, 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.

Essential Functions:

• Perform independent project(s) and participate in the design of research studies focused on behavioral and pharmacology experiments in mice, rats and tissue and cell systems, including models of mood and anxiety disorders, and models of psychotropic medication mechanism of action. Compile, analyze, and interpret research data using various relevant computer software applications.
• Administer day-to-day laboratory operations including monitoring the budget, ensuring quality control and safety compliance, developing policies and procedures, and monitoring laboratory purchasing.
• Assure that laboratory research is conducted in accordance with approved Institutional Care and Use Committee protocols. With the collaboration of the PI and laboratory researchers, write and edit animal protocol amendments and new protocols as needed.
• Participate in the training and guiding of students, laboratory technicians, and/or laboratory trainees.
• Perform laboratory research activities such as: animal surgery, in vivo and ex vivo electrophysiology or imaging, pharmacokinetic studies, analytical analyses, microscopy techniques, imaging techniques, recombinant DNA techniques, and hybridizations, etc.
• Conduct library research and participates in editing and preparing manuscripts, grant proposals, grant reports, scientific illustrations, and computer graphics for publication. Contribute to the preparation of journal articles and grant proposals. 
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education: Bachelor's degree in biology, agriculture, veterinary science, biochemistry, chemistry, or field of study related to the animal science. Degrees in Biology, Chemistry, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Pharmacy, or Psychology are strongly preferred.
Experience: Three (3) years of experience working with animals in a research laboratory setting, including two (2) years in the relevant research specialization with laboratories rodent/multi-species.
Other: May consider a combination of directly related experience and education. Masters, Ph.D. or Pharm.D. or other higher degree may be substituted for laboratory research experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to understand and utilize scientific/medical/drug pharmacology terminology and research theory in both verbal and written communications.
• Skill in statistical interpretation and data analysis using statistical software as well as spreadsheet and database software applications.
• Skill in animal care and handling.
• Ability to use measurable and verifiable information for making decisions or judgments.
• Ability to network with and provide information to key groups and individuals.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to use a consultative approach to resolve issues in area of responsibility.

The Hiring Range for this position is in the mid $50,000s to low $60,000s, 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.