CII - Laboratory Animal Research Assistant

The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) School of Dentistry is seeking a Laboratory Animal Research Assistant to join the Division of Neural and Pain Sciences (Dr. Da Silva Lab). The research assistant is responsible for performing animal research activities in a laboratory setting using rodents (mostly rats). Main responsibilities include animal handling, behavioral tests, and brain surgeries. Work is performed in accordance with animal welfare regulations, USDA, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, Public Health Services (PHS), Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), Association for assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC), and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) guidelines.

Benefits (Contingent Category II):

UMB offers a comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes wellness, work/life balance, and professional development, along with additional exciting perks that employees can take advantage of. Contingent Category II staff receive a generous leave package that includes over 2 weeks of vacation each year, paid holidays, sick time, and time for community service; subsidized comprehensive health insurance and supplemental retirement options; professional learning and development programs; limited tuition remission for employees enrolled at UMB; life insurance and long-term disability; and flexible work schedules and teleworking options (if applicable per job).

UMB is a public university and constituent institution of the University System of Maryland. All employees are expected to work primarily physically within the State of Maryland.

Primary Duties:

• Perform routine laboratory maintenance and research activities such as: general housekeeping, daily observations of animal health, and reporting outcomes to veterinarian.
• Perform laboratory research activities on rodents, especially rats, such as: behavioral tests (pain- and emotional-like behaviors), brain surgeries with stereotaxic frame and post-operative care.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in biology, agriculture, veterinary science, biochemistry, chemistry, or field of study related to animal science.

Experience: Experience in brain surgeries preferred.

Supervisory Experience: N/A

Certification/Licensure: Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) or Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) preferred.

Other: Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 undergraduate college credits being equivalent to one year of related experience. In instances where specific education and/or experience is required only directly related education and/or experience may be substituted.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Knowledge of position requirements. Knowledge of all applicable requirements, regulations, and laws. Skill in effective use of applicable technology/systems. Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts. Ability to work cooperatively with others and independently. Ability to demonstrate, understand, apply, and adhere to the UMB Core Values of Respect and Integrity, Well-being and Sustainability, Equity and Justice, and Innovation and Discovery.

Hiring Range: Up to $50,500 (Max Compensation), Commensurate with education and experience

UMB is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce and is proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, ancestry or national origin, sex, pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, physical or mental disability, marital status, protected veteran's status, or any other legally protected classification.

If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation for a disability under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), during any part of the employment process, please submit a UMB Job Applicant Accommodation Request. You may also contact Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

The University of Maryland, Baltimore prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. Read the UMB Notice of Non-Discrimination for more information.

Job: Reg or CII Exempt Staff - E3329C

Employee Class Exempt Contingent II

Full Time/Part Time: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Financial Disclosure: No

Organization: School of Dentistry - Neural and Pain Sciences

Job Posting: Nov 11, 2025

Unposting Date: Dec 1, 2025, 10:59:00 PM