Research Associate, Scientific Services

Altasciences • Columbia, MO

2d

About The Position

The Research Associate is a hands-on role supporting preclinical research by providing daily care, handling, and procedural support for study animals while ensuring animal welfare and compliance with study protocols and regulatory standards. The role offers experience working with multiple species, research techniques, and scientific teams, contributing to studies supporting the development of medicines and therapies.

The Research Associate collaborates with study directors, supervisors, veterinarians, and research staff to support study execution. The position involves routine animal monitoring and husbandry, assisting with sample collection and study procedures, recording study data, operating laboratory equipment, and maintaining clean, organized, compliant work areas. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Passion for animal welfare and a strong commitment to providing exceptional care.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Comfort learning new procedures, technologies, and research techniques.
• Positive attitude, adaptability, and willingness to take on new challenges.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work with cross-functional teams.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Biology, Veterinary Technology, Life Sciences, or a related field.
• Previous animal handling, veterinary, agricultural, zoological, laboratory animal, or research experience.
• ALAT certification or interest in obtaining certification.
• Experience in veterinary clinics or animal hospitals, veterinary technician programs, animal shelters or rescue organizations, zoos or aquariums, livestock or agricultural settings, laboratory animal facilities, or biology, animal science, and life science degree programs.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine animal observations and monitor overall health and well-being.
• Provide humane handling, restraint, enrichment, feeding, and husbandry support for mice, rats, rabbits, canines, swine, and non-human primates.
• Assist with sample collection activities, including blood and urine collection, dosing procedures, and catheter support.
• Support veterinary and research staff during study procedures and anesthetic events.
• Collect and accurately record study data in accordance with protocols, SOPs, and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards.
• Operate laboratory equipment and prepare materials needed for study activities.
• Identify and report changes in animal health, behavior, or environmental conditions.
• Maintain organized, clean, and compliant work areas.
• Collaborate with study directors, supervisors, veterinarians, and fellow research staff to ensure successful study execution.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401(k)/RRSP with employer match.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Paid sick and bereavement leave.
• Employee assistance and telehealth programs.
• Telework when applicable.
• Training and development programs.
• Employee referral bonus program.
• Opportunities for training, certification support, and career advancement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED