Job Description: Veterinary Research - Animal Welfare Specialist
Position Overview:
The Veterinary Research - Animal Welfare Specialist is a crucial role within our organization, responsible for ensuring the ethical and humane treatment of animals involved in veterinary research. As an Animal Welfare Specialist, you will play a vital role in promoting animal welfare standards, implementing protocols, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and guidelines. This position requires a deep understanding of veterinary medicine principles, excellent communication skills, and a strong commitment to animal welfare.
Responsibilities:
- Develop, implement, and monitor animal welfare policies and procedures.
- Review and approve animal research protocols to ensure compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements.
- Conduct regular inspections and assessments of animal research facilities to ensure adherence to animal welfare guidelines.
- Provide expert guidance and training to researchers and staff on animal handling, care, and welfare.
- Collaborate with veterinary staff to monitor animal health, identify signs of distress, and ensure appropriate veterinary care is provided.
- Oversee the appropriate use of anesthesia, analgesia, and euthanasia in accordance with approved protocols and guidelines.
- Investigate and address any reports of animal welfare concerns or violations, ensuring timely resolution.
- Maintain accurate records and documentation related to animal welfare, including protocol reviews, inspections, and training records.
- Stay updated on current research methodologies, regulations, and best practices in animal welfare to provide informed guidance and recommendations.
- Collaborate with regulatory agencies and institutional animal care and use committees to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Qualifications:
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree or equivalent, with a focus on animal welfare or laboratory animal medicine.
- Valid veterinary license to practice in the jurisdiction of employment.
- In-depth knowledge of veterinary medicine principles, animal welfare regulations, and guidelines.
- Proven experience in the oversight and management of animal welfare in a research or laboratory setting.
- Strong understanding of research methodologies and the ethical considerations specific to animal research.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively educate and train researchers and staff.
- Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficient in using computer systems and software for record-keeping and data analysis.
Note: This job description outlines the primary responsibilities and qualifications of the Veterinary Research - Animal Welfare Specialist role. It is not intended to be exhaustive, and additional duties may be assigned as necessary to meet the organization's needs.