Job Description

This position reports to the Principal Investigator  and the Pre-Clinical Surgeon of the Cardiovascular surgical and interventional research laboratory and requires surgical and anesthesia proficiency in a variety of laboratory animal species and animal models. Independently, or under general supervision of the pre-clinical surgeon, induce and monitor general anesthesia in laboratory animals; perform surgery; provide technical assistance and nursing support to postoperative animals; assist investigative staff with experimental procedures, pre-, intra- and postoperative care and monitoring; and provide nursing services to animals. Actively participates in interdepartmental training and continuing education seminars.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Serve as key member of team executing biomedical research studies to aid in the design and development of cardiovascular (CV) treatments and medical devices.
• Induce and monitor general anesthesia in laboratory animals and maintain anesthesia and surgical equipment. 
• Assist pre-clinical surgeon and investigators in surgical procedures, treatments and pre- and postoperative care of laboratory animals including weighing animals. 
• Administer medications and provide care to animals including those recuperating from surgical procedures.
• Assist with provision of necessary enrichment for CV animals housed in the facility.
• Ensure compliance with animal use protocols and all other regulations regarding this research.
• In conjunction with other team members, maintain the CV surgical facility, ensuring it is clean.  Clean and/or sterilize surgical instruments and related equipment.
• Prepare and sterilize surgical packs.
• Maintain appropriate and accurate records and logs including animal weights, medical treatments, surgical records, etc.
• Maintain supply inventory and order supplies in a timely fashion to ensure availability for procedures. 
• Assist with care and maintenance of equipment.
• Maintain established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance programs, safety, environmental and infection control standards.
• Keep up with current developments in methods, standards, and requirements for training in animal research and current laws, regulations, and policies governing animal research, teaching, and testing.
• Enhance professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings, and workshops.
• Maintain collaborative, team relationships with peers and colleagues in order to effectively contribute to the working groups achievement of goals, and to help foster a positive work environment
• Perform other similar and related duties as required or directed.

Qualifications

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Knowledge in laboratory animal medicine including anesthesia and surgery in a variety of small and large species.
• Basic knowledge in the regulations governing animals used in biomedical research.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point and use of email.
• Must have demonstrated productivity and effective interpersonal skills; and have the ability to work effectively and professionally with others.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Science, Veterinary Technology, Animal Health Science or a related field.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of 1-2 years experience.

An equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides proficiency in the areas of responsibility listed above, may be substituted for the above education and experience requirements.

LICENSES, ETC.

• AALAS and/or ASR and/or SRA certifications recommended.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to lift up to 50lbs with or without accommodation.
• Normal animal laboratory environment.  May be exposed to ionizing radiation under controlled conditions in accordance with institutional safety standard requirements. 
• May be exposed to biohazardous substances. 
• Subject to long irregular hours

Additional Information

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES STATEMENT:

Must be able to perform all essential functions of this position with reasonable accommodation if disabled.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Tufts Medical Center reserves the right to modify position duties at any time, to reflect process improvements and business necessity.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES STATEMENT:

Must be able to perform all essential functions of this position with reasonable accommodation if disabled.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed, as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Tufts Medical Center reserves the right to modify position duties at any time, to reflect process improvements and business necessity.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.