Job Description: Veterinary Research - Animal Research Compliance Officer
Position Overview:
The Veterinary Research - Animal Research Compliance Officer is responsible for ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, policies, and ethical guidelines for the conduct of animal research within the veterinary medicine field. This role will involve closely collaborating with researchers, veterinarians, and animal care staff to develop, implement, and monitor compliance programs and procedures. The Animal Research Compliance Officer will play a crucial role in maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare and ethical practices in veterinary research.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive compliance programs and policies for animal research activities in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
2. Collaborate with research teams to review and assess research protocols involving animal subjects, ensuring compliance with all ethical and regulatory requirements.
3. Conduct regular inspections and audits of animal research facilities to ensure adherence to animal welfare standards and compliance with applicable regulations.
4. Serve as a resource and advisor to researchers, veterinarians, and animal care staff on matters related to animal research compliance.
5. Monitor and investigate any potential non-compliance issues, including animal welfare concerns, and take appropriate actions to address and resolve them.
6. Develop and deliver training programs to researchers, staff, and students on animal research compliance, ethical guidelines, and best practices.
7. Keep abreast of relevant changes in regulations, policies, and guidelines related to animal research, and ensure that compliance programs and procedures are updated accordingly.
8. Collaborate with regulatory agencies, Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUC), and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with reporting requirements and facilitate inspections.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
1. Bachelor's degree in veterinary medicine, animal science, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
2. Minimum of 3 years of experience in veterinary medicine, animal research, or related compliance roles.
3. In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations governing animal research, including the Animal Welfare Act, Public Health Service Policy, and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) guidelines.
4. Strong understanding of animal welfare principles, ethical considerations, and best practices in animal research.
5. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and apply complex regulations and guidelines.
6. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate and interact with researchers, veterinarians, and animal care staff at all levels.
7. Detail-oriented and highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
8. Strong commitment to animal welfare and the ethical conduct of animal research.
9. Proficiency in using computer software and databases for tracking, reporting, and analyzing compliance data.
10. Certification in Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM) or Certified Professional in IACUC Administration (CPIA) is desirable, but not mandatory.
Note: This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.