Behavior Analyst

Inotiv•Alice, TX

13d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for implementing and improving the environmental enhancement plan for all nonhuman primates by working closely with the veterinary and behavioral management teams. Supports the management of the macaque breeding program by promoting the psychological well-being of the animals while ensuring effective reproduction. At Inotiv, our work helps advance the development of new medicines and therapies that can improve people's lives. As a leading global contract research organization (CRO), we partner with researchers to tackle complex scientific challenges, drive innovation, and help build a healthier, safer world. Bringing together scientists, researchers, technical experts, and business professionals, we provide the expertise and collaboration needed to move research forward. Our people make this work possible, and we value the knowledge, ideas, and contributions each person brings to the team. Whether you are starting your career or bringing years of experience, Inotiv offers opportunities to learn, grow, and play a meaningful role in advancing treatments for patients around the world.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in relevant field. A combination of education and experience may be considered.
AALAS certification at the LATG level preferred.
At least 8 years professional working experience with old-world primate species. Other lab animal experience may be considered.
At least 2-3 years behavioral study of nonhuman primates required.
Understanding of the Animal Welfare Act and how it pertains to the psychological well-being of nonhuman primates in laboratory animal management.
Computer skills: proficient with Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with a wide variety of personnel.
Mandatory TB tests.
Work in inclement and extreme temperatures.
Holiday, weekend or “off hour” work may be required.

Responsibilities

Implement and improve the environmental enhancement plan for all nonhuman primates.
Support the management of the macaque breeding program by promoting the psychological well-being of the animals while ensuring effective reproduction.
Work in partnership with the Breeding Coordinators and Veterinary Technicians to create successful, productive, long term breeding groups that meet client expectations.
Develop and help manage the breeding strategies that meet species specific breeding behaviors; breeding seasonality, breeding group management (e.g. maintaining harem, juvenile or all-female groups once bred, etc.)
Manage formation and maintenance of compatible breeding groups.
Develop and manage weaning strategies for optimal weanling development.
Manage and advise on social re-introductions of animals returning to their social groups.
Recognize abnormal or stereotypic behaviors and work with the Enrichment Team to create tailored enrichment plans. Implement, track and document effective plans.
Lead the management of colony alopecia cases.
Perform temperament assessments as needed.
Schedule and conduct routine behavioral observations for compatibility on social cohorts and breeding groups.
Work closely with the veterinary and animal care staff to ensure proper animal care standards are maintained.
Help identify foster/mentor dams and assist with placement of orphans back into the breeding colony (Infant Foster-Mentor Program).
Advise on optimal enrichment and housing strategies to continually promote species-typical behavior.
Develop and implement shaping plans to train nonhuman primates for various husbandry tasks (e.g. shift into a transfer cage or tunnel) or research related tasks (pole/collar) using positive reinforcement techniques. Maintain, evaluate and improve documentation as needed.
Assist in writing and providing AAALAC program description details.
Revise relevant SOPs as needed.
Participate in the training program for all existing staff and new hires.
Participate in client communications, audits and meetings.
Create and maintain client spreadsheets.
Create and deliver presentations for clients.
Evaluate and develop new approaches, ideas and concepts for existing tasks and/or improve/replace existing procedure or systems.
Participate in IACUC.