GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION:

Under the general direction of the Office of the Vice Provost for Biomedical Science Research or designee, the Research Compliance Specialist works closely with the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and Department of Animal Medicine.  The Research Compliance Specialist is a key position in helping to ensure that research using laboratory animals at UMMS is conducted in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations and institutional policies.  

The Compliance Specialist is responsible for conducting post-approval monitoring activities, including the ongoing monitoring and observation of laboratory practices and procedures relative to approved IACUC protocols, with an emphasis on educating and building partnerships with members of the research community. 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist with the development and implementation of policies and procedures designed to promote compliant practices and mitigate risk when using animals for biomedical research, education, or product safety assessment.
• Provide guidance and training to investigators to assure compliance with research regulations and standards.
• Conduct audit reviews of IACUC protocols and animal research practices, including visits to laboratories to ensure continued protocol compliance and to identify areas that require modification or that could be improved through supplemental training. During such visits, animal care and use will be reviewed for compliance with approved protocol conditions; the training status of lab personnel will be monitored; and a written report of deficiencies (if any) will be prepared.
• Participate in semi-annual IACUC inspections, program reviews, and preparation of federal, state and institutional reports.
• Schedule meetings and/or investigations of alleged non-compliance reports by investigating in a sensitive, fair, and confidential manner.
• Maintain knowledge of current information and issues regarding laboratory animal science and engage in professional development activities.
• Develop and maintain an IACUC compliance database, and help monitor corrective actions mandated by the IACUC or external regulators.
• Generate reports, charts, and presentations
• Perform other duties as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., basic biological, animal science, or veterinary sciences), or equivalent experience
• 4 years of related experience, 2 of which must be directly related to IACUC issues and animal welfare.
• Strong working knowledge of laws, regulations, policies, and nationally accepted standards regarding the care and use of animals in research, testing, and instruction.
• Strong knowledge of the IACUC protocol review and approval process.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office products: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Excellent time management skills with ability to independently organize and efficiently deal with multiple ongoing activities.
• Good written communication skills including the ability to communicate effectively by email.
• Good oral communication skills, including the ability to conduct training presentations in front of small groups. Has the ability to overcome language barriers of others.
• Can work productively with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
• Ability to travel to off-site locations.

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PREFERED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Previous experience as a post-approval compliance monitor
• Experience with animal research techniques including anesthesia, aseptic technique, and drug administration as well as recognition of normal animal behavior and appropriate handling of laboratory animals
• Certification as a Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG), Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR), or Certified Professional IACUC Administrator (CPIA)

Required qualifications include knowledge of the Animal Welfare Act and Regulations, Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals and PHS Policy on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.