Veterinary Research Associate

About the Role

• Seeking a motivated Staff Research Associate II to join the Laboratory Animal Resource Center (LARC) at UCSF.
• This position supports animal health, welfare, veterinary care, and research programs.
• Will work under the supervision of veterinarians to assist with health monitoring, basic veterinary procedures, diagnostic activities, and laboratory animal health programs.
• Opportunity for Veterinary Technician graduates, Veterinary Assistants, Laboratory Animal Technicians, and life sciences graduates interested in laboratory animal research.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor the health and welfare of laboratory animals, particularly rodents.
• Assist with basic veterinary care and animal health surveillance.
• Support rodent sentinel health monitoring programs.
• Assist with anesthesia, necropsy, and diagnostic procedures as trained.
• Maintain accurate animal health records and laboratory documentation.
• Prepare and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Communicate animal health findings to veterinarians and research teams.
• Support laboratory animal health and welfare programs.
• Assist with administrative activities and staff training.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
• Ability and willingness to work with rodents and potentially larger animals.
• Ability to work onsite Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
• Willingness to travel between UCSF facilities, including Parnassus and Mission Bay.
• Valid California driver's license.
• Interest in transitioning into a long-term, full-time opportunity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician experience.
• RVT certification.
• Laboratory animal care or animal husbandry experience.
• Experience in biomedical research or vivarium operations.
• Anesthesia experience (strong advantage).
• Experience with laboratory documentation, health monitoring, or SOP preparation.

Important Position Requirements

• Candidates must be comfortable working with laboratory rodents and other research animals.
• Due to disease-contamination risks, employees cannot keep rodents as pets at home while working in this position.
• The role involves standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Participation in the required occupational health monitoring program and pre-employment medical evaluation is mandatory.