Breeding Colony Specialist

Breeding Colony Specialist

General Summary

Southern Research is seeking a dynamic experienced animal caretaker with a passion for translational research and optimizing rearing and healthcare in a non-rodent transgenic system. The selected candidate will be pivotal in overseeing the colony including caging logistics, breeding, birthing, and overall healthcare in consultation with veterinary staff. Candidates with a strong track record of non-rodent colony management are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will lead a caretaker team and make informed cage-side decisions. The candidate will be expected to collaborate with external teams, animal staff, and translational scientists, and propose strategies and future directions to meet project goals.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage the monitoring plans for colony and make decisions in consultation with veterinary staff.
• Optimization of rearing and enrichment processes.
• Monitoring microbiology and other longitudinal endpoints.
• Manage logistics for internal and external animal shipments.
• Execute analysis and reporting of the varied tasks listed and propose changes when needed.
• Work across departments and functional roles to meet project goals and timelines.

Requirements/Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, animal science, or related field.
• 5+ years relevant experience handling non-rodent species.
• Excellent communication skills: written and verbal.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in biology, animal science, or related field
• 8+ years relevant experience with managing healthcare for non-rodent species
• Experience in a blend of animal care and translational science strategies, methods, and approaches

Core Values

Cultivating human connection – putting people first.  We know that every individual makes a difference and that no one can do it alone.  We believe the world's most powerful resource is human potential.  We are an inclusive and courageous team where innovation and diversity of thought go hand in hand.  We understand that relationships move at the speed of trust.

Operating with precise execution – measuring what matters and owning results as a team.  We leverage data to drive decisions that advance science.  We recognize the importance of a stable foundation coupled with an agile mindset.  We hold ourselves accountable and take pride in our work.  We give and receive candid feedback as a gift that keeps us growing.

Harnessing relentless curiosity – our unstoppable, innovative force.  We are driven to ask sharp questions and push the boundaries of knowledge.  We use creativity and critical thinking as catalysts for finding solutions that change lives.  We learn by doing, consistently striving to improve our relationships, training, methodologies, questions and results.

Stewarding a healthy community – implementing sustainable operations for a safe, engaging environment.  We don't compromise on safety and health for our employees, customers or community.  We believe a healthy community begins with inclusive economic opportunities.  We respect the dignity of the patients we ultimately serve.  We are motivated to serve communities that are underserved and markets that are overlooked.

Job Specific Behaviors

Attention to detail - Utilizes established monitoring system, records data accurately and in a timely manner, and ensures accuracy of data.

Communicates effectively - Creates a team environment in which information flows freely and decision making is based on a win-win philosophy.

Planning and Organization - Systematically identifies issues to be addressed and plans a course of action for self and others to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives.

Adaptability – Works effectively under changing conditions. Approaches change or newness positively and tries to understand rationale for new direction.  Adjust behavior accordingly.

Applied Learning - Actively participates in learning activities.  Quickly gains knowledge, understanding or skill.  Applies newly gained knowledge or skill in completing assignments.

Judgment - Makes rational and realistic decisions which are based on logical assumptions, reflecting factual information and show consideration of all pertinent factors.

Quality Orientation – Complies with established policies and procedures. Ensures high-quality work output.  

Initiative / Productivity - Asserting one's influence over events to achieve goals; self-starting rather than passive; takes action to achieve goals beyond what is required; is proactive.

Work Standards – Sets high goals or standards of performance for self.  Dissatisfied with average performance.

Physical Demands

This position requires significant physical exertion including:

• Standing, walking, or climbing for extended periods of time
• Lifting, pulling, or pushing heavy objects (sometimes more than 50 lbs.)
• Perform repetitive and strenuous activities that require standing, stopping, or crouching by bending at the waist or legs.
• Clear vision with corrective lenses at 20 feet or more
• Fine motor skills and manual dexterity
• Withstanding exposure to constant and intermittent high noise levels

Certifications, Licenses & Registrations

None required.