Research Technician - Behavior Science

Ensign-Bickford Industries, Inc. • Montgomery City, MO

2d

About The Position

This opportunity is located within our AFB International business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption. Click here to learn more. Job Description Summary: The Research Technician supports behavior, palatability, and novel research trials involving cats and dogs. This role is responsible for executing study protocols, collecting and coding behavioral and novel data, monitoring animal participation and health, analyzing trial results and presenting to the internal team. The Research Technician collaborates with Trial Execution Technicians and supports animal husbandry activities as workload allows.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Behavior, Animal Science, Biology or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Demonstrated interest in animal behavior, welfare, or applied animal research.
• Experience with the proper treatment and handling of cats and dogs in a research setting.
• Experience maintaining a functional workspace, including the upkeep of instrumentation, equipment, supplies, and materials.
• Knowledge of experimental design and hypothesis testing using the scientific method.
• Understanding of behavioral principles, practices, and procedures for research studies.
• Knowledge of safety practices in food and animal research laboratory environments, and the ability to follow established safety protocols.
• Proficiency in Noldus/The Observer software, including acquisition, coding, and storage of video data.
• Ability to collect, manage, and analyze electronic data with accuracy and reliability.
• Demonstrated skills in descriptive data analyses, including routine difference and equivalence testing and creation of publication- or presentation-quality graphs.
• Strong time management, organizational, and multitasking skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for summarizing and reporting research results.
• Ability to identify improvement opportunities in behavioral metrics and methodologies.
• Strong attention to detail in observing, assessing, and documenting animal behavior.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team-based environment.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities, protocols, and workflows.

Nice To Haves

• Experience conducting applied scientific research based on a hypothesis.

Responsibilities

• Execute behavioral, palatability, and novel research trials in accordance with approved protocols.
• Conduct trial activities, including feeding, weighing animal rations, and operating commercial dishwashers.
• Operate specialized equipment to evaluate feeding enjoyment and preference in dogs and cats.
• Collect, code, and analyze behavior trial data using The Observer, LIMS, and Excel.
• Summarize, interpret, and report novel and behavior trial data to project leads or scientists.
• Monitor animals’ health, behavior, and participation across studies; identify and communicate concerns and recommended countermeasures.
• Support animal welfare through adherence to IACUC approved protocols.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of methods, metrics, and research practices, including IACUC protocol development and revisions.
• Assist Trial Execution Technicians and perform animal husbandry duties as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level