The Senior Research Surgical Technician plays a critical role in supporting advanced cardiac research using large animal models. Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI), this position independently performs complex surgical procedures to develop and evaluate experimental models of heart disease, including myocardial infarction, arrhythmia, and heart failure. The technician assists in delivering gene transfer vectors and other investigational therapies, performing cardiac imaging and electrophysiological assessments, and ensuring the ethical and humane treatment of all research subjects in compliance with institutional and federal guidelines.

Major Responsibilities

• Independently perform advanced cardiac surgical procedures on large mammalian research subjects, including:
• Median sternotomy, thoracotomy, and vascular access
• Coronary artery catheterization, balloon occlusion, and pacing lead placement
• Epicardial gene delivery via open-chest and percutaneous approaches
• Intraoperative echocardiography and electrophysiology monitoring
• Prepare and maintain the surgical environment, ensuring sterile technique and proper documentation
• Collaborate with investigators, veterinary staff, and technical personnel to plan and execute experimental procedures
• Monitor animals pre-, intra-, and post- operatively for safety and welfare
• Maintain surgical instruments, equipment, and inventory
• Support the collection of study data and preparation of research records as needed
• Adhere to all institutional animal care and use (IACUC) and biosafety regulations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, veterinary science, biomedical engineering, or a related field
• A minimum of 5 years of independent relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience performing cardiac or thoracic surgical procedures on human or large animal subjects
• Independence in basic and advanced surgical techniques, including sterile scrub, subject preparation, sternotomy, thoracotomy, vascular access, and cardiac pacing/catheterization
• Strong understanding of sterile technique, animal physiology, and anesthesia principles

Preferred Qualifications

• AALAS certification (LAT/LATG) or equivalent veterinary/surgical credential
• Experience with gene delivery or electrophysiology research
• Familiarity with echocardiography and data recording systems