Description

A little about us:

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting-edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention.

We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary and optimistic researchers, working at the cutting edge of science, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the way we approach the development of new treatments, and ultimately cures. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD.

Job Summary: 

The Research Animal Care Technician II is primarily responsible for routine husbandry and animal care within the satellite animal facility. This position requires availability for coverage on scheduled weekends and holidays. 

*Position requires availability for coverage on scheduled weekends and holidays.*

Duties and responsibilities:

· Responsible for maintaining cages according to Animal Study Protocols (ASPs).

· Review, comprehend and comply with ASP's and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

· Performs daily animal health checks.

· Performs sick animal monitoring and treatments when necessary.

· Provides food, water, basic husbandry care, and cage changing for rodents according to SOPs.

· Performs receiving of animals and setup/weaning of breeder cages in coordination with research staff.

· Maintains cage cards in the Mosaic Software System.

· Maintains animal health logs, and other records as required.

· Cleans animal holding rooms, procedure rooms, and common hallway in 3rd floor animal suite according to SOPs.

· Keeps common supplies in stock in animal suite.

· Maintains inventory of caging and other animal room supplies.

· Performs genotyping assays when needed in coordination with research staff.

· Performs animal dosing (SQ, IM, IP, IV, Oral gavage) as well as animal ID (ear tags and punches) and sample collection when needed in coordination with research staff.

· Conducts other research and animal care related procedures, as requested. Including humane euthanasia practices.

· Assist the Animal Care Supervisor to ensure that the Lieber satellite animal facility complies with all Johns Hopkins, state, and federal regulations.

· Other Duties as assigned

*Position requires availability for coverage on scheduled weekends and holidays.

Requirements

Minimum qualifications (mandatory): 

High school degree or equivalent. 

Previous work with laboratory animals (rodents).
Must not have animal allergies to applicable species in this facility (small laboratory animals).

Preferred qualifications:

Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) certification by AALAS is preferred.

Special knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Ability to understand and follow detailed oral and written instructions.
• Ability to read and write in order to maintain records, read instructions, labels, etc.
• Ability to observe, assess, and record abnormal symptoms.
• Knowledge of animal husbandry requirements, methods, and techniques.
• Ability to work well alone and as part of a team.
• Ability to interact and work with investigators, students, staff, and visitors in a knowledgeable, respectful and courteous manner. 
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to work under environmental conditions that require the use of PPE and safety equipment.

Physical Requirements:

- Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time;

- Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers;

- Mobility, including the ability to maneuver around a laboratory setting including the ability to move materials weighing up to 25 pounds;

- Communication skills using the spoken and written word; 

- Having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communication;

- All other physical demands in a standard laboratory environment.

** If accommodations are needed due to pregnancy or a disability, please contact jobs@libd.org 

EEOC Statement: At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. As an equal opportunity employer, the Lieber Institute does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, color, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, military service, or other non-merit based factors protected by state or federal law or local ordinance, with regard to any position or employment for which the applicant or employee is qualified. 

Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, 403B with employer matching, paid time off, wellness programs, short term and long term disability and much more. More information can be found here: https://www.libd.org/careers/benefits/ 

EEOC Statement: At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. As an equal opportunity employer, the Lieber Institute does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, color, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, military service, or other non-merit based factors protected by state or federal law or local ordinance, with regard to any position or employment for which the applicant or employee is qualified. 

LIEBER INSTITUTE FOR BRAIN DEVELOPMENT'S COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development is a transparent and collaborative community working to produce unique and imaginative patient-oriented solutions to developmental neuropsychiatric disorders. It is committed to integrating scientists from diverse disciplines, cultures, and countries into a research team that draws upon the best of its staff. The Institute is historic—it is defining a unique model for ground-breaking science. It values translational science that revolutionizes the field and improves the quality of life for those affected by mental illness. The Institute provides an environment that fosters independent growth through mentorship and a supportive, collegial community. Diverse minds, ideas, and talent are needed to support LIBD's mission. Fresh, innovative ideas and perspectives are a competitive necessity in an increasingly diverse and global marketplace. The success of the Institute's mission depends upon leveraging a diversity of talent.

The Institute's commitment to diversity goes beyond compliance with laws and regulations that promote equal employment opportunity, prohibit discrimination and harassment, and support minority and woman owned businesses. To realize the advantages of its diversity, it is necessary to work effectively together even when differences challenge us to consider ideas and methods that seem impractical or make us feel uncomfortable.

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development demonstrates its commitment to diversity by:

• Including others: Talent is not limited to those with a narrow set of industry and academic credentials. The Institute is committed to building diverse teams, inviting others to share their perspectives, seeking out a diversity of input when making decisions, questioning traditional thinking, and promoting continuous learning and development.
• Respecting one another: The Institute is committed to listening carefully to others, seeking consensus, engaging in active and constructive debate, thoughtfully challenging one another, and providing constructive feedback.
• Building trust: The Institute is committed to sharing information and resources, depending on one another to get things done, keeping promises, and conveying high integrity in all actions.