UW Medicine - Seattle, WA
posted 16 days ago
About the position
The University of Washington invites applications for the position of Primate Welfare Specialist at the Washington National Primate Research Center (WaNPRC). The primary purpose of this position is to provide the appropriate environment for the center's nonhuman primates (NHPs) to support outstanding biomedical research directed towards significant human health issues and nonhuman primate health, welfare, and biology. This role is integral to the mission of the Behavioral Management Services (BMS) Program, which oversees the implementation of the federally required UW Environmental Enhancement Plan for NHPs, focusing on their psychological well-being and behavioral health. The position requires knowledge of nonhuman primate behavior and experience working with primates, as well as strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with various staff members and train new employees.
Responsibilities
- Conduct social introductions and provide environmental enrichment for NHPs.
- Monitor the social and behavioral health of primates and oversee the implementation of the UW Environmental Enhancement Plan.
- Investigate project assignments and bloodborne pathogen status of prospective social partners.
- Communicate and coordinate with investigators and research staff about potential partners and project schedules.
- Write procedure requests and create maps for moving selected animals into appropriate social housing arrangements.
- Conduct formal social introduction observations and compatibility assessments.
- Maintain detailed socialization records in requisite databases and assist in data analysis for research purposes.
- Identify enrichment needs and manage environmental enrichment inventory.
- Conduct standardized monitoring of all animals and assist in behavioral observations.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in a related field and one year of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education/experience.
- Commitment to promoting nonhuman primate health and well-being.
- Experience working with nonhuman primates.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-tasking team environment.
- Professional written and oral communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Nice-to-haves
- Training in leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork.
- Experience training personnel.
- Familiarity with U.S. Animal Welfare Regulations.
- Experience with positive reinforcement training.
- Formal education in animal behavior.
Benefits
- Generous benefits and work/life programs.
- Professional growth opportunities.
- Diversity and inclusion initiatives.
- Access to unique resources in a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment.
