SRA 1 (SRA 1 - Bliss-Moreau Lab - NB)

Department Purpose

The California National Primate Research Center (CNPRC) is an Organized Research Unit that conducts interdisciplinary research programs on significant human health-related problems where nonhuman primates are the animal models of choice. In addition to its major efforts in the area of research, the CNPRC is also committed to its missions of teaching and service.

Job Summary

The Bliss-Moreau Lab seeks full-time short-term SRAs to contribute to our ongoing research on the neurobiology of behavior in health and disease across the lifespan. Located at the California National Primate Research Center, the laboratory works primarily with rhesus monkeys and all work must be completed onsite (no work from home option). Comfort working with monkeys in a variety of settings is a must, as is the ability to physically move monkeys and equipment which can often weigh upwards of 50 lbs (including between buildings during the heat of summer). We are seeking highly motivated lab members who can manage their time well to carry out tasks, troubleshoot challenges as they arise, work well in the context of a fast moving and dynamic team, communicate directly, and do not need to be “micromanaged” to accomplish goals. The laboratory provides training in methodology used with nonhuman primates, with a focus on cooperative training techniques, and more general scientific methodologies, in order to support career development. For more information about the laboratory see blissmoreaulab.ucdavis.edu

Under the direction of the PI (Bliss-Moreau) and lab manager provide technical support of nonhuman primate studies of behavior and aging which include behavioral testing (including eye-tracking) and neuroanatomical studies (imaging and histological studies). Duties include training animals to test (including chair training), testing of animals, physiological and behavioral data collection, and maintenance. Apply technical and theoretical knowledge of animal behavioral assessments, observations, scans, and recording for scientific behavioral testing and monitoring. Perform technical tasks related to research including moving of monkeys between home and laboratory, cleaning of laboratory space, collecting biological samples from monkeys, and regular health checks. Effectively collaborate on research projects as directed by protocols and research goals. On assigned projects, manage data collection and entry.

Position Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Handle, move, and transport animals. Move and handle a variety of animals weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Performs diversified tasks that may often require squatting, kneeling, bending, stooping, or standing.
• Position requires repeated movement, repetitive procedures, operating and maintaining equipment, and safely lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds.
• Wear protective clothing for extended periods of time including gown, lab coats, gloves, masks, face shields, and head covers.
• Use and disposal of radioactive isotope, hazardous materials and other environmental health and safety procedures.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Measles vaccination or documentation of illness required. This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy.
• Individual will work routinely with animal and specimens and chemical agents.
• Must be able to comfortably lift and move at least 50 lbs and work in Davis, CA climate year-round.
• Must perform assigned duties in BioSafety Level (BSL) 2/3 conditions where non-human primates may be naturally or experimentally infected with potentially hazardous diseases such as SRV, SIV, HIV, STLV, HTLV or Herpes virus.
• Position requires employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious agents are present. In such instances, employee will be required to wear protective clothing for personal protection from infectious diseases and animals.
• Must be able to work irregular hours (early mornings, early evening, and/or weekends, as needed).
• Work occasional weekends and holidays.
• Primary work location CNPRC.
• California National Primate Research Center employees are directly or indirectly engaged in the performance of work on Federal or State contracts and grants as well as periodically come into contact with controlled substances; and are expected to abide by the UC Policy on Substance Abuse, the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, and the State Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1990.
• The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier, safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdavispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Education/Experience:

• Undergraduate degree in Neuroscience, Biological Sciences, Psychology, Animal Behavior or other biobehavioral science or the equivalent combination of education, training.
• Experience working with nonhuman primates or other captive animals.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

• Technical skills to plan out the testing sequence and perform highly technical behavioral testing of nonhuman primates which includes knowledge of rhesus monkey behavior, including animals of all ages.
• Demonstrated and proven skills in maintaining effective communications among various groups of people whose skills are needed to ensure the success of research projects including demonstrated ability to work effectively and efficiently with multiple people.
• Skills and ability to processing biological samples and prepare tissues for a variety of biochemical assessments, including the knowledge of biomedical waste procedures.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Biological Sciences, Psychology, Animal Behavior, or other biobehavioral science.
• Experience handling non-human primates to assess animal health and to provide basic acute care support.
• Experience in coordination and management of small and large-scale projects simultaneously and effectively.
• Experience in safely handling potentially infectious nonhuman primates, tissues, and biological specimens.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

• Skills to clean, order supplies, and maintain organization within a research laboratory.
• Skills in setting up and troubleshooting computer and video recording equipment for recording and coding of nonhuman primate behavior.
• Knowledge of USDA regulations and AALAS practices and protocols pertaining to rat and primate non-human animal models.
• Knowledge and skills to manage budgets and tracking of laboratory expenses.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Background Check

This position is a critical position and subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation including criminal history and identity checks.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At UC Davis, we’re solving life’s most urgent challenges to bring a fuller, healthier, and more resilient world within reach. We grow from every challenge we take on and we don’t just maintain - we improve.

We recognize that creating an inclusive and intellectually vibrant organization means understanding and valuing both our individual differences and our common ground. The most comprehensive solutions come from the most diverse minds, and you belong here.

As you consider joining UC Davis, please explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education, and our latest efforts to outgrow the expected.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.