This position reports directly to the Vice Provost for Research and Sponsored Programs and oversees the development and maintenance of high-standard animal health programs within LAR-managed facilities. The role includes working closely with the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to develop and implement policies and procedures that ensure humane animal treatment while maximizing research benefits to human and animal health. Responsibilities include directing the LAR Department to support Wright State University's research and educational mission, supervising professional, technical, and administrative staff, and managing the animal husbandry program under the Attending Veterinarian's oversight. Maintaining AAALAC International accreditation is also a key responsibility.
Required Qualifications::
Master's degree with 5 years' experience or a Bachelor's degree with 7 years' experience in animal research or laboratory animal science.
Minimum of 3 years' experience managing laboratory animal care and use programs in a research institution.
Extensive experience in laboratory management.
Strong background in regulatory compliance and quality assurance.
Demonstrated experience in research and development.
Proven ability to lead and manage a team.
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Knowledge of advanced laboratory techniques and equipment.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Sound judgement and decision-making skills.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, demonstrated ability to interact professionally with investigators, students, and staff.
Conflict management and problem-solving skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) credential or an Institute for Laboratory Animal Management (ILAM) graduate credential, DVM.
Preferred Qualifications::
Ph.D. with 3 years in animal research or laboratory animal science.
Ph.D. in a biological discipline or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).
Proficiency in laboratory information systems (LIS) and software.
Essential Functions and percent of time::
Personnel Management (40%)
Hire and ensure adequate staffing of LAR
Directly supervise 2-6 employees, provide indirect supervision of all LAR staff and students
Ensure all staff and students are appropriately trained
Meet regularly with staff and students to communicate updates and need.
Assist Researchers with Protocol Implementation(20%)
Provide technical guidance and training to researchers and research animal care staff to support diverse research areas and protocols
Communicate LAR updates with researchers and research staff
Serve on the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)
Oversee LAR Budget (10%)
Provide direct oversight and management of the LAR budget. Plan and approve expenditures
Monitor account and purchase order balances to ensure funding is available for required expenses
Forecast and communicate future needs to Business Manager
Calculate per diem rates using federally compliant methods and ensure appropriate billing of all provided services
Manage applications for funding for equipment and facility improvements through grants, Capital Appropriations, or other means when opportunities are available
Administer the Animal Research Investigator Training Program10%)
Maintain the Animal Care and Use training program to remain compliant with all requirements, ensure investigator access to training, and provide training updates as necessary
Administration and Documentation(20%)
Ensure documentation of all clinical, research, training, and oversight activities to comply with federal regulations and University requirements
Develop, implement, and control procedures related to acquisition, maintenance, quarantine, and disposition of research animals
Review and update relevant Standard Operating Policies and Procedures, applicable sections of the Program Description, and other documents as required
Working Conditions::
Potentially high noise levels and exposure to noxious odors, fumes, anesthetic gases, animal bites and scratches, animal allergens, animal waste, and hazardous or infectious substances
Chemical exposure to sprays, washing and disinfecting solutions including acids and caustic chemicals.
Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
Must be available for weekend, holiday, and after hour emergencies
Wright State University serves nearly 18,000 students and offers more than 230 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional degree programs through eight colleges and three schools. Located in the city of Fairborn in Greene County, Ohio, Wright State is conveniently situated adjacent to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and is less than 10 miles from downtown Dayton. One of our eight colleges, Wright State University–Lake Campus, is a university-operated regional campus on the shores of Grand Lake St. Marys in Celina, Ohio. The Wright State alumni community is more than 109,000 strong. For more information please visit www.wright.edu.
