Research Lab Specialist I

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia•Philadelphia, PA

44d

About The Position

This role participates in a planned research projects by performing research protocols. Works independently and self-directed while providing guidance and technical training to other lab staff. Possesses a specialized education in the biological or chemical sciences and is required to exercise appropriate situational discretion and sound scientific judgement in execution / interpretation of experiments, and interpretation of data derived. We are seeking an experienced Veterinary Technician to join our pediatric oncology research program. This is a full-time position that will support our translational research initiatives focused on drug development for children with solid tumors, particularly utilizing genetically engineered and immunocompromised mouse models. The ideal candidate will bring extensive hands-on experience with rodent husbandry, monitoring, and veterinary care in a research setting.

Requirements

Current Veterinary Technician certification or licensure (required)
Minimum 3-5 years of hands-on experience with laboratory mouse models in a research setting
Demonstrated expertise with rodent husbandry, handling, and restraint techniques
Strong understanding of IACUC regulations, animal welfare, and research compliance
Proficiency with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and detailed record-keeping
Excellent observation and communication skills
Physical ability to perform repetitive tasks and work with small animals
Advanced knowledge in the use of a wide variety of lab techniques, research equipment and research related software
Excellent verbal and written communications skills
Excellent organizational skills
Excellent critical thinking / problem-solving skills
Excellent analytical skills
Bachelor's Degree Required
At least three (3) years of directly relevant post grad scientific lab experience Required

Nice To Haves

LATG (Laboratory Animal Technician) certification preferred
Experience with immunocompromised and transgenic mouse strains (preferred)
Knowledge of tumor models (xenograft, syngeneic, or transgenic) and monitoring protocols (preferred)
ACLAM (American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine) recognized certification
Experience with CAR T cell therapy or other cellular immunotherapy models
Familiarity with NSG, NOD/SCID, or other immunodeficient mouse strains used in cancer research
Experience with in vivo imaging techniques (bioluminescence, fluorescence)
Knowledge of pain assessment and management in rodent models
Experience with bone marrow transplantation or similar complex procedures
Exposure to drug development and translational research environments
Training in laboratory safety and biosafety protocols
At least five (5) years of directly relevant post grad scientific lab experience Preferred

Responsibilities

Animal Husbandry & Health Management - Maintain optimal health and welfare of research mouse colonies including transgenic, immunodeficient (NSG, NOD/SCID, BALB/c nude), and genetically engineered strains
Perform daily health assessments, body condition scoring, and behavioral monitoring
Implement and maintain detailed record-keeping systems for animal care, observations, and interventions
Identify and respond promptly to signs of illness, distress, or welfare concerns
Collaborate with veterinarians to develop and execute treatment protocols and pain management strategies
Technical Procedures & Monitoring - Perform routine phlebotomy and blood collection using approved techniques (retro-orbital, submandibular, saphenous vein)
Conduct tumor monitoring, measurement, and assessment in xenograft and syngeneic tumor models
Perform interventions such as flank or orthotopic xenografting, caudal vein or artery tumor inoculation, and full necropsies
Perform imaging procedures including bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging, and MRI/CT.
Perform specimen collection for research purposes (blood draws, tissue collection, bone marrow harvesting)
Monitor animals receiving experimental therapeutics, CAR T cell infusions, and other investigational treatments
Track and document adverse events, clinical observations, and animal welfare parameters
Compliance & Documentation - Ensure compliance with IACUC protocols, institutional policies, and federal regulations (USDA, PHS, AAALAC)
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all procedures, observations, and veterinary interventions
Prepare reports and data summaries for regulatory submissions and grant requirements
Participate in protocol training and continuing education requirements
Support regulatory inspections and documentation reviews
Facility Management - Maintain cleanliness and biosecurity standards in animal housing areas
Manage inventory of supplies, equipment, and medications
Assist in facility planning, equipment maintenance, and workflow optimization
Troubleshoot and report equipment issues promptly
Collaboration & Communication - Work effectively within a multidisciplinary team including researchers, veterinarians, and facility staff
Communicate observations and concerns clearly to principal investigators and veterinary oversight
Serve as a resource for research staff regarding animal care best practices and protocol requirements
Mentor junior technicians and undergraduate/graduate student researchers
Performs lab tests which require the analysis of results and interpretation of methods
Assists with planning specific research protocols and procedures
Assists in development & troubleshooting of new techniques and ideas
Modifies methods and protocols under the direction of the PI
Formulates and performs complex lab experiments, analyzes data & reports outcomes
Presents & discusses work at regular lab meetings
Prepares laboratory reagents and monitors and maintains inventory
Performs calculations and maintains appropriate log books and lab notebooks
Assists in writing methods and setting-up protocols accurately under the direction of the PI program director or senior scientist
Assists with the maintenance of laboratory equipment, development of safety procedures and compliance records
Researches journals, white papers and other scientific publications for pertinent information
Assists with the preparation of materials for presentations, papers, grant applications, and conferences
May oversee junior staff and/or laboratory workflow.
May assist with lab administrative functions.