Research Lab Specialist I

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A Brief Overview
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.

Key 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

Additional Qualifications

- Current Veterinary Technician certification or licensure (required); LATG (Laboratory Animal Technician) certification preferred

- 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

- Experience with immunocompromised and transgenic mouse strains (preferred)

- Knowledge of tumor models (xenograft, syngeneic, or transgenic) and monitoring protocols (preferred)

- 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

- 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

Knowledge & Skills

- Advanced technical proficiency with murine handling and restraint

- Phlebotomy and blood collection techniques

- Attention to detail and commitment to animal welfare

- Problem-solving and critical thinking

- Ability to work independently and as part of a team

- Strong written and verbal communication

- Reliability and professional demeanor

- Flexibility to adapt to research timelines and priorities

What you will do

• 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.

Education Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree Required

Experience Qualifications

• At least three (3) years of directly relevant post grad scientific lab experience Required
• At least five (5) years of directly relevant post grad scientific lab experience Preferred

Skills and Abilities

• 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

To carry out its mission, CHOP is committed to supporting the health of our patients, families, workforce, and global community. As a condition of employment, CHOP employees who work in patient care buildings or who have patient facing responsibilities must receive an annual influenza vaccine. Learn more.

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SALARY RANGE:

Salary ranges are shown for full-time jobs. If you're working part-time, your pay will be adjusted accordingly.

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At CHOP, we are committed to fair and transparent pay practices. Factors such as skills and experience could result in an offer above the salary range noted in this job posting. Click here for more information regarding CHOP's Compensation and Benefits.