Vivarium Technical Operations Associate

Role Summary

Vivarium Technical Operations Associate (P01) for the Tumor Biology In Vivo Pharmacology (TB-IVP) team within the La Jolla Oncology Research Unit. Focused on executing high-quality in vivo dosing procedures to support preclinical oncology research, with emphasis on animal welfare and regulatory compliance. Will contribute to vivarium operations and support the Vivarium Operations and Technical Manager, aiding resource coordination and matrix-management.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and advanced dosing techniques in rodents, including oral gavage, intravenous (tail vein), intraperitoneal, and subcutaneous administration.
• Verify dosing formulations are in accordance with study protocols and SOPs.
• Monitor animals post-procedure and report clinical observations promptly.
• Support biological sample collection (e.g., blood, plasma, tissues) and necropsy procedures as needed.
• Maintain accurate, compliant records in alignment with IACUC and Pfizer internal standards.
• Collaborate with study teams, veterinarians, and technical staff (ORU and CRL) to ensure seamless study execution.
• Ensure procedural areas and equipment are maintained in a clean and ready state.
• Support vivarium operations by assisting with scheduling, resource coordination, and procedural logistics in collaboration with the Vivarium Operations and Technical Manager.
• Using scientific expertise partner with in vivo pharmacologists and project teams to refine existing models and the development of new in vivo models that align with research objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelors level degree in relevant discipline.
• Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience in rodent dosing techniques in a research, academic, or industry setting.
• Demonstrated proficiency in oral gavage, intraperitoneal (IP), and subcutaneous (SC) injections.
• Willingness and ability to work some weekends and holidays on a rotating schedule.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols with precision.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Works under minimal supervision with regular review of results and methods.
• Prioritizes and organizes own work to meet project deadlines.
• Experience in leveraging other team members to complete tasks, matrix-management.
• Applies practical knowledge gained through experience in the principles and practices of relevant scientific disciplines.
• Executes technical tasks and procedures independently
• Applies established methodologies and frequently implements novel approaches to improve processes.
• Resolves moderately complex problems by selecting from defined alternatives; operates effectively in less structured environments.
• Decisions influence both individual and team outcomes.
• Relies on personal experience and peer input to make informed scientific decisions.
• Completes assignments following general instructions and established procedures.
• Identifies and engages in scientific activities that support team objectives.
• Actively participates and contributes as a responsible team member.

Skills

• Laboratory techniques in in vivo pharmacology and animal handling.
• Record-keeping and compliance with IACUC standards.
• Team collaboration and communication.
• Problem-solving in less-structured research environments.

Education

• Bachelors degree in a relevant discipline.

Additional Requirements

• Standing and reaching, lifting items above shoulder level; repetitive movements such as pushing/pulling racks of caging, stooping, and bending.
• Weekend and Holiday Rotations required; on-site presence may be necessary in emergencies.
• After-hours work may be required to ensure study integrity and animal welfare.