Comparative Medicine Specialist

Be You.

Duke University's Division of Laboratory Animal Resources (DLAR) is looking for animal husbandry technicians to join our dynamic organization. We are a team of highly trained individuals dedicated to the humane care and use of research animals. DLAR is committed to maintaining the highest quality laboratory animal program and serves as a resource center for Duke investigators and their labs.

Daily, you will use strong customer service skills and enjoy working with similarly dedicated teammates within a high-energy research environment. Your customer-focused attitude, positive energy, and dedication to the research animals will be utilized in this rewarding opportunity, while you continue to learn and grow in an academic research support environment. 

Minimum Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent. Must obtain ALAT certification or successfully complete the equivalent Duke internal certification program within 12 months of employment. ALAT certification is preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

Some experience in the care and handling of animals is preferred. 

Be Bold.

Work Performed (on-site position)

• Daily, you will perform general husbandry duties involving the handling of conventional and genetically engineered animal models with varying health statuses, in compliance with DLAR and Duke policies and standard operating procedures.
• Specific duties may include: processing incoming animals, changing cages, maintaining animal rooms, operating cage wash and other facility equipment, performing animal health checks, monitoring overcrowded cages, participating in animal quarantine and health surveillance programs, reporting facility and environmental issues, performing routine euthanasia, and providing enrichment to the animals.
• You will be expected to document critical facility data daily as required by regulatory agencies and Duke standards and processes.
• You will be required to communicate professionally and respectfully, both verbally and in writing.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals in this position. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

Special Conditions of Employment

• Ability to lift and move 50lbs. regularly and stand for long periods.
• Must be able to work on a rotating on-call schedule after hours, on weekends, and on holidays.
• As a safeguard for you and the animals, medical examinations and risk assessments are performed.
• Some immunizations or further diagnostics may be required before working with specific animals or animal populations, as determined by occupational health medical personnel.
• Employees may be exposed to potentially hazardous noise, dust, chemicals, extreme heat, and animal waste products. The duration of exposure to any of the above is dependent on assigned duties. Some aspects of this position may expose the incumbent to potentially zoonotic and other biohazardous agents. Appropriate protective clothing and equipment may be required and will be provided when required, accompanied by appropriate training. 

Choose Duke.

Beyond this meaningful work supporting important research studies at Duke, you’ll also benefit from Duke’s competitive benefits package, including health insurance plans, generous paid time off, retirement programs with employer contributions, tuition assistance for both employees and their children, and more benefits unique to both Duke and DLAR.