Broad Institute - Cambridge, MA
posted 6 months ago
About the position
The Comparative Medicine Technician I at the Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of laboratory animals, which is essential for the success of biomedical research. This position is responsible for preventative health monitoring, veterinary care, and animal husbandry across multiple species. The technician will complete all aspects of vivarium technical operations in accordance with established standard operating procedures. This includes providing clean and sanitized nesting material, fresh food, water, and environmental enrichment on a scheduled basis or as needed. In this role, the technician will monitor animal health and well-being, evaluate health conditions, report any abnormalities, and provide clinical treatments as directed by a veterinarian or program management. The technician will also document, organize, and maintain timely records in the laboratory animal resource software system, ensuring that all data is accurate and up-to-date. Additionally, the technician will provide technical services and support to research staff, monitor enrichment enhancements, and maintain breeding, identification, and gestational databases. The position requires the operation of various equipment, including bio-safety cabinets, animal transfer stations, and individually ventilated rack systems, as well as regulated veterinary equipment. The technician will assist in preparing autoclaved caging material for animal colonies and may occasionally operate mechanical cage wash units, bulk steam sterilizers, and decontamination equipment. Compliance with required regulations and adherence to program and institutional procedures is essential. Other duties may be assigned as necessary.
Responsibilities
- Monitors animal health and well-being.
- Evaluates animal health and reports abnormal conditions.
- Monitors and provides clinical treatments as directed by veterinarian or program management.
- Documents, organizes, and maintains timely records in the laboratory animal resource software system.
- Provides technical services and support to research staff.
- Provides and monitors enrichment enhancements for animals.
- Provides fresh feed, water, and bedding material as scheduled and as needed.
- Maintains breeding, identification, and gestational databases.
- Operates bio-safety cabinets, animal transfer stations, and individually ventilated rack systems.
- Operates regulated and calibrated veterinary equipment.
- Assists with preparing autoclaved caging material for animal colonies according to standard operating procedures.
- Occasionally operates mechanical cage wash units, bulk steam sterilizers, and decontamination equipment according to standard operating procedures and manufacturer instructions.
- Ensures compliance with required regulations and follows program and institutional procedures and policies.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- High School diploma or GED.
- 0-2 years of experience in a laboratory animal husbandry position.
- Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with research staff and peers.
- Must function well independently and as a team member.
Nice-to-haves
- AALAS certification preferred.
