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Texas Biomedical Research Institute - San Antonio, TX
posted 2 months ago
About the position
The Monkey Training Specialist at the Southwest National Primate Research Center (SNPRC) is responsible for training nonhuman primates for husbandry and research activities, educating staff on training techniques, and participating in research related to primate behavior and cognition. This full-time, onsite position requires a skilled individual who is enthusiastic about animal training and behavior, and who can work collaboratively within a dedicated behavioral team.
Responsibilities
- Train nonhuman primates for various husbandry tasks using positive reinforcement-centered methodology.
- Train nonhuman primates to participate in research-related tasks as needed.
- Provide guidance to investigators on behavior and training-related aspects of studies.
- Teach operant conditioning skills and techniques to SNPRC staff.
- Maintain animal training records and associated summaries in a computerized database.
- Observe nonhuman primates and provide recommendations concerning behavioral management.
- Prepare and present seminars to departmental staff on animal training and socialization techniques.
- Participate in research projects related to primate behavior.
- Keep current on literature regarding animal training and primate behavior.
- Participate in journal/book club on topics related to primate behavior.
Requirements
- BS in psychology, anthropology, biology, or related fields.
- A minimum of one year of applicable animal experience, including knowledge and experience with operant conditioning.
- Comfortable working with laboratory animals including baboons, macaques, and other nonhuman primate species.
- Good organizational and computer skills.
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Capacity to lift and carry 50 lbs for short distances on a regular basis.
- Comfortable working in environments where infectious agents may be present.
- Comfortable working with hazardous chemicals including Enviro-B and bleach.
- Comfortable standing or walking for prolonged periods, pulling and holding overhead cables, or climbing ladders.
Nice-to-haves
- Previous experience with nonhuman primates desirable but commensurate experience with other exotic and/or domestic taxa also acceptable.
- Enthusiasm for primate behavior and its study.
Benefits
- Competitive pay
- 7% Employer-Funded retirement contribution starting day one
- Full insurance benefits
- Holidays, PTO and a paid week off for the last week of December
