Research Assistant II- Colony Management | Kumar Lab

Addiction is chronic disease with strong genetic influences. The Kumar Lab at JAX in Bar Harbor seeks to understand the genetic underpinnings of this devastating disease.  We are a group of geneticists, neuroscientists, computer scientists, and statisticians working at the confluence of animal behavior, genetics, and artificial intelligence to address this important societal problem. We are recruiting a team member to carry out behavioral experiments and contribute scientifically. The position requires motivated individuals with a passion for science, who is willing to learn and adapt in order to make impactful discoveries.

The project will discover new genes and pathways involved in addiction by carrying out behavior screens in mice. In addition, we are studying naturalistic behaviors that change when an animal is administered certain drugs. The RAII will be responsible for behavior data generation, animal husbandry, conducting and analyzing behavior experiments. Although mouse handling and behavior testing skills are important, they are not required and will be taught. We value motivation, analytical thought process, and an ability to learn. Good communication and the ability to work effectively within teams is important. Some weekend work is required.

Responsibilities:

Manage and maintain the mouse colony, including breeding, weaning, and health monitoring including the following responsibilities-Animal Care and Husbandry:Feeding and providing water to the animals.Monitoring the health and well-being of the colony members.Ensuring proper sanitation and cleanliness of the living environment.Breeding and Population Management:Managing breeding programs to maintain genetic diversity.Keeping accurate records of births, deaths, and lineage.Implementing population control measures as needed.Health Monitoring and Veterinary Care:Conducting regular health checks and administering medications.Coordinating with veterinarians for routine and emergency care.Implementing disease prevention and control protocols.Data Collection and Record Keeping:Maintaining detailed records of animal health, behavior, and breeding.Entering data into lab IT systems and databases.Documenting experimental data and observations.Environmental Enrichment and Welfare:Providing enrichment activities to promote natural behaviors.Ensuring animals have access to appropriate shelter and nesting materials.Monitoring and improving the overall welfare of the colony.Compliance and Ethical Standards:Adhering to all relevant protocols, SOPs, and ethical guidelines.Ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.Maintaining high ethical standards in all aspects of animal care.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biological science, animal technology, or a related field.1-3 years mouse husbandry experience in a laboratory setting preferred.Proficiency in animal handling and husbandry techniques.Knowledge of breeding programs and genetic management.Familiarity with health monitoring and veterinary care practices.Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, data entry, basic computational skills.

Pay Range: $41,912 - $70,171 per year, based on experience.

About JAX:

The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.

Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visit www.jax.org​​​​​​​.

EEO Statement:

The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.