Animal Physiology Core Research Assistant

Position Summary
This position independently performs animal physiology testing and all necessary tasks for the daily operations of the Animal Physiology Core (APC), including equipment maintenance, and organization/execution of experiments involving the APC.  Acts as technical advisor to investigators regarding procedures and surgeries involving the APC. Works in collaboration with the Director of the APC to organize and conduct research projects for APC users. Will work both independently and with the APC Director for research projects.

Essential Duties

1. Performs animal physiology experiments such as lung function testing, monitoring oxygenation, weight, and physical endurance, assists with obtaining biofluids and tissues.
2. Performs animal cardiovascular hemodynamic measurement microsurgery and analyzes resultant data.
3. Operates CT scanner to successfully obtain CT scans of animals and samples and analyzes resultant data.
4. Prepares statistical tabulations, using a calculator or computer. 
5. Develops and oversees projects involving core equipment or assays.  
6. Evaluates equipment performance regularly and determines appropriate preventative maintenance and quality assurance for such instruments.
7. Coordinates activities for compliance with regulatory and accrediting institutions (USDA, FDA, NIH, AAALAC International) by performing regular audits of the facility, writing and implementing standard operating procedures (SOP’s) training, and bringing issues of noncompliance to the attention of the BRC Manager. 
8. Develops standard operating procedures for techniques and equipment related to the APC.
9. Provides, develops, coordinates, and documents the training of BRC staff, Principle Investigators and research staff as per NJH policies, BRC SOP's and regulatory requirements in relation to the APC. 
10. Coordinates and/or provides specialized technical services/assistance and projects within the APC for research staff.  Performs a wide range of advanced technical procedures related to the APC.
11. Supervises the health and well-being of animals while under the care or in use of the APC.
12. Supervises and schedules the research animals, equipment, and supplies as needed for the APC. 

Competencies

1. Accountability: Accepts full responsibility for self and contribution as a team member; displays honesty and truthfulness; confronts problems quickly; displays a strong commitment to organizational success and inspires others to commit to goals; demonstrates a commitment to National Jewish Health.
2. Attention to Detail: Accomplishing tasks by considering all areas involved, no matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes and tasks; being watchful over a period of time. Setting high standards of performance for self and others; assuming responsibility and accountability for successfully completing assignments or tasks; self-imposing standards of excellence rather than having standards imposed.
3. Decision Making: Identifying and understanding issues, problems, and opportunities; comparing data from different sources to draw conclusions; using effective approaches for choosing a course of action or developing appropriate solutions; taking action that is consistent with available facts, constraints, and probable consequences.
4. Informing and Communicating: Clearly conveying information and ideas through a variety of media to individuals or groups in a manner that engages the audience and helps them understand and retain the message.
5. Peer Relationships: Interacts with others in a constructive, positive, and respectful manner, regardless of individual differences. Assists team members or co-workers in achieving personal goals and completing assignments.
6. Initiative: Taking prompt action to accomplish objectives; taking action to achieve goals beyond what is required; being proactive. Responds quickly; takes independent action, goes above and beyond.

Supervisory or Managerial Responsibility
None

Travel
None

Core Values

1. Be available to work as scheduled and report to work on time.
2. Be willing to accept supervision and work well with others.
3. Be well groomed, appropriately for your role and wear ID Badge visibly.
4. Be in compliance with all departmental and institutional policies, the Employee Handbook, Code of Conduct and completes NetLearning by due date annually.
5. Fosters an inclusive workplace where diversity and individual differences are valued and leveraged to achieve the vision and mission of the institution.
6. Adheres to safe working practices and at all times follows all institutional and departmental safety policies and procedures. 
7. Wears appropriate PPE as outlined by the infection control policies and procedures.
8. Demonstrates compliance with all state, federal and all other regulatory agency requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Education: Bachelors degree required. Master’s degree or PhD preferred.
2. Work Experience: 3 years of Animal experience required with 1 year in laboratory animal species. A Master’s Degree and 2 years of laboratory experience may be substituted for the required 3 years of work experience. 1 year in laboratory animal species required.
3. Special Training, Certification and Licensure: AALAS certification at the Laboratory Animal Technologist level is required within 2 years of hire. (N/A if a doctorate level degree is held)

Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000
 

Benefits
At National Jewish Health, we recognize that our outstanding faculty and staff are the essence of our organization. For every aspect of health care, our employees are our greatest asset. With that in mind, we have designed a valuable, comprehensive benefits package to meet the needs of our employees and their families. 

• Comprehensive Medical Coverage: Multiple Cigna health plans for Colorado, regional office and remote employees. Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) available to pair with some plans.
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO accruals to use for vacation and sick days, and six paid holidays, all compliant with Colorado state sick leave regulations.
• Dental & Vision Plans: Coverage effective the first of the month after hire.
• Retirement Savings: 403(b) plan with employer contributions after two years.
• Wellness Incentives: Earn up to $200 annually for preventive health activities.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $5,250 annually for full-time and part-time employees.
• Child Care Assistance: Childcare Flex Spending Account (FSA) with annual employer contribution.
• Loan Forgiveness: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer.
• Disability & Life Insurance: Employer-paid plans and optional buy-up choices.
• Voluntary Benefits: Full suite of coverage options such as Accident, Hospital Indemnity and Legal Plan
• Exclusive Discounts: Savings on local services, insurance, and RTD bus passes.

Application Deadline: This position will be open for a minimum of three days and until a top applicant is identified.