The University of Maryland, Baltimore's (UMB) Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science (PTRS) within the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) has an exciting opportunity for a contractual Laboratory Animal Research Assistant or contractual Laboratory Animal Research Specialist.

The Laboratory Animal Research Assistant or Specialist is responsible for performing a variety of technical duties involved in conducting translational neurotrauma research in rodents and humans. Position includes management of wet lab and administrative assistance with clinical projects.

BENEFITS (Contractual/C2 Employee):

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, personal leave, 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 and teleworking options (if applicable per job).

UMB is a public university and constituent institution of the University System of Maryland. All employees are expected to work primarily physically within the State of Maryland.

PRIMARY DUTIES

For Laboratory Animal Research Assistant:

• Perform a variety of technical duties involved in conducting in vivo experiments using clinically relevant rodent models of neurotrauma. Set up instruments, material, and apparatus and operate standard laboratory equipment required for specific tests.

• Assist in the development of new research procedures and techniques. Ensure work is performed in accordance with animal welfare regulations, USDA, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, Public Health Services (PHS), Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), Association for assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC), and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) guidelines and protocols.

• Assist in the maintenance of sufficient inventory of materials, supplies, and equipment for performance of duties. Clean and maintain standard laboratory equipment.

• Identify and recommend modifications to existing laboratory procedures and techniques to meet the needs of the particular experiment or equipment as required.

• Manage and conduct experiments (standardized assays, laboratory tests, behavioral testing, tissue sectioning, histology, microscopy, etc.).

• Obtain data in support of research-oriented activities. Compile, analyze, document, and draw tentative conclusions from experimental results.

• Manage colonies of genetically modified mice.

• Perform rodent microsurgical procedures and post-surgical animal care.

• Process murine biospecimens such as blood and tissue.

• Purification of different cell types, DNA, RNA, and proteins from biospecimens.

• Maintain cell culture lines, including preparation of culture media, chemicals, reagents and solutions.

• Conduct biospecimen assays on obtained samples (blood, cerebrospinal fluid, etc.).

• Perform other duties as assigned.

For Laboratory Animal Research Specialist:

Perform all duties of the Assistant including:

• Functions as a single specialist in a laboratory setting, is responsible for providing the advanced technical expertise to research project(s), and must follow and complete advanced pathways to provide an animal `whole body care? as it applies to the area of specialty to achieve this job title. The position will work in a highly collaborative environment to achieve research project goals by designing studies, performing laboratory experiments, analyzing data, writing reports, presenting results, and training staff and students.

• Perform independent project(s) and participate in the design of research studies. Perform procedures utilizing specific skillsets or advanced treatments as dictated by the veterinarian in charge. Compile, analyze, and interpret research data using various relevant computer software applications.

• Independently perform day to day laboratory research activities.

• Work closely with principal investigator to design and develop plans for research experiments. Maintain detailed documentation and inventory.

• Make minor modifications to existing laboratory procedures and techniques to meet the needs of the particular experiment or equipment as required.

• Prepare materials for research studies, including sample collection kits and research documents. Perform a variety of technical duties involved in conducting clinical research with human participants. Maintain detailed documentation. Maintain participant confidentiality. Maintain sufficient inventory of materials, supplies, and equipment for performance of duties. Clean and maintain standard laboratory equipment.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

For Laboratory Animal Research Assistant:

Education: Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, neurobiology, biology, zoology, psychology, agriculture, veterinary science, chemistry or field of study related to the animal science.

Experience: Experience working with animals in a research laboratory setting or in an animal hospital that includes experience in a wet lab or other relevant research specialization in rodent/multi-species clinical is preferred.

Supervisory Experience: N/A.

Other: Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 undergraduate college credits being equivalent to one year of related experience. In instances where specific education and/or experience is required only directly related education and/or experience may be substituted.

For Laboratory Animal Research Specialist:

Education: Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, neurobiology, biology, zoology, psychology, agriculture, veterinary science, chemistry or field of study related to the animal science.

Experience: Three (3) years of experience working with animals in a research laboratory setting or in an animal hospital is preferred, including two (2) years in a wet lab or other relevant research specialization in rodent/multi-species clinical.

Supervisory Experience: N/A.

Other: Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 undergraduate college credits being equivalent to one year of related experience. In instances where specific education and/or experience is required only directly related education and/or experience may be substituted.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of position requirements.

• Knowledge of all applicable requirements, regulations, and laws.

• Skill in effective use of applicable technology/systems.

• Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts.

• Ability to work cooperatively with others and independently.

• Ability to demonstrate, understand, apply, and adhere to the UMB Core Values of Respect and Integrity, Well-being and Sustainability, Equity and Justice, and Innovation and Discovery.

HIRING RANGE: $51,000 - $56,000 per year for Laboratory Animal Research Assistant / $63,000 - $69,000 per year for Laboratory Animal Research Specialist (Commensurate with education and experience)

UMB is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce and is proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, ancestry or national origin, sex, pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, physical or mental disability, marital status, protected veteran's status, or any other legally protected classification.

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 HRDiversity@umaryland.edu. Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

The University of Maryland, Baltimore prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. Read the UMB Notice of Non-Discrimination for more information.