GRAF Research Coordinator

University of Chicago•Chicago, IL

10d

About The Position

The GRAF Research Coordinator supports clinical and specialty research by collecting and analyzing laboratory data and providing rodent colony breeding, production, and technical support to Principal Investigators. The role maintains mouse colonies within flexible film isolators and sets up and performs experiments. Under indirect supervision, the coordinator performs moderately complex animal-related procedures, including gavage, injections, breeding schemes, and tissue harvest; collects, maintains, and analyzes data; and helps monitor compliance with institutional, state, and federal requirements. The position may coordinate research support staff and students and may provide training to Principal Investigator groups and other research personnel. The role also supports facility operations, animal health monitoring, specimen preparation and analysis, and laboratory quality and safety measures. Weekend animal health check coverage is shared among a large staff group on a rotation. The position involves moving between facilities, working in a biological safety cabinet, standing or sitting for assigned duties, and computer-based work.

Requirements

College or university degree in a related field.
Knowledge and skills developed through less than two years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work weekends and holidays on a rotational basis.
Computer knowledge and skills, including Word, Excel, and other basic programs.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and attention to detail.
Knowledge of regulatory compliance.
Ability to work successfully as a team member and communicate effectively with faculty, graduate students, and administrative offices at all levels of the University.
Ability to prioritize, make decisions, solve problems, and handle multiple tasks in a short amount of time.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field or a field relevant to the animal research being conducted.
Experience in a scientific animal research setting or a gnotobiotics facility.
Previous work experience in an academic environment and biomedical research.
Prior experience with mouse colony management.
AALAS certification or eligibility for certification at LAT level or higher.

Responsibilities

Maintain breeding and experimental mouse colonies within flexible film isolators, including tagging, tailing, weaning, and keeping colony status records.
Prepare materials for experimental procedures with germ-free and ex-germ-free associated animals.
Perform experimental interventions with germ-free and ex-germ-free associated animals and assist Principal Investigator groups with experiments in the facility.
Set up and monitor weekly fecal specimen cultures.
Perform animal health checks and health observations.
Assist with training Principal Investigator groups and other research personnel working in the GRAF.
Assist with advanced procedures, which may include anesthesia and surgery.
Assist with facility maintenance, isolator tasks, facility operations, equipment and supply preparation, and administrative support for the GRAF Technical Director.
Analyze clinical samples and specimens under guidance and direction, and report results.
Prepare specimens for examination and look for abnormalities using automated equipment and computerized instruments.
Maintain laboratory quality and safety control measures and maintain general awareness of safety, quality control, and quality assurance procedures.
Help monitor compliance with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, procedures, directives, and mandates.
Perform other related work as needed.
Participate in a shared weekend rotation for animal health check coverage.