Lead Animal Care Specialist

2 weeks ago


San Francisco, California, United States University of California , San Francisco Full time


**Lead Animal Care Specialist**

Organization: University of California, San Francisco

Employment Type: Full Time

Job Code: 79007BR

Position Overview:

The Lead Animal Care Specialist (LACS) plays a crucial role in supporting the operations of the Gnotobiotic Core mouse facility. This position encompasses essential facility upkeep and animal husbandry within specialized gnotobiotic environments. Responsibilities include monitoring essential resources such as food, water, and bedding, overseeing inventory of supplies, conducting environmental checks for temperature and humidity, and maintaining comprehensive records of activities performed. The LACS will also engage in health assessments of mice and collaborate with veterinary and facility personnel as required. While this role does not involve supervisory responsibilities, it is situated within a specialized core facility where the standards of care exceed typical animal technician roles.

In addition to the aforementioned duties, the LACS will be involved in breeding, genotyping, and maintaining detailed colony records across multiple generations of mice. This work demands exceptional attention to detail, as any contamination could jeopardize the entire colony.

The ideal candidate will possess the capability to execute advanced experimental techniques to assist Core users in their research endeavors. This may include administering experimental agents via various routes, conducting follow-up assessments, and performing necessary laboratory techniques to ensure the sterility of germ-free mouse colonies. Techniques may involve microbial culture, gram staining, and potentially other molecular methodologies such as DNA extraction and genotyping.

Compensation: The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on institutional policy.

Department Overview:

The George Williams Hooper Foundation operates as a dedicated research unit within the University of California, San Francisco.

Qualifications Required:

  • In-depth knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and adherence to established guidelines.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills, both verbal and written, in English.
  • Experience in rodent handling within a research or veterinary context.
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to work autonomously.
  • Proven record-keeping and communication skills.
  • Basic proficiency in computer applications (Microsoft Word, Excel) and the ability to learn web-based software for data management.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, as required by experimental needs.
  • Enthusiasm for acquiring new skills and contributing to the collaborative environment of the facility.
  • Proficient in mouse handling, restraint, and breeding techniques.
  • Ability to identify health issues in animals and communicate findings to veterinary staff or supervisors.
  • Capability to follow instructions and collaborate effectively with team members.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in gnotobiotic research.
  • Laboratory skills including preparation and interpretation of various assays (e.g., aerobic and anaerobic cultures, DNA extraction, qPCR).
  • Experience in an AAALAC-accredited animal facility, with knowledge of rodent care and training.
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
  • Veterinary Technician License.


About the University of California, San Francisco:

UCSF is a premier institution committed to advancing health globally through innovative biomedical research, graduate education in health sciences, and outstanding patient care. It is the sole campus in the UC system focused exclusively on health sciences, bringing together leading experts across various health domains.

Commitment to Diversity:

UCSF values a diverse community and seeks candidates whose experiences contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity, and excellence. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that supports diverse ideas and perspectives in education, research, and patient care.

Equal Opportunity Employment:

UCSF is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Work Environment:

This position is based at the Parnassus Heights campus, with a standard work schedule of 40 hours per week, including occasional weekend shifts as necessary.



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