Director of Lab Animal Medical Services, Attending Veterinarian

Laboratory Animal Medical Services (LAMS) is responsible for husbandry and veterinary care of all vertebrate animals on the University of Cincinnati (UC) campus. LAMS is committed to providing high-quality animals and services to meet the needs of the researchers. In addition, LAMS is responsible for assisting researchers in model development, animal usage, humane animal treatment, and compliance with University policies and procedures and governmental regulations.

The University of Cincinnati Office of Research is currently recruiting applicants for the position of Director of Laboratory Animal Medical Services-Attending Veterinarian. The successful candidate will be responsible for the strategic oversight and operations of a complex academic animal facility with 3 vivariums and other satellite housing locations across campus. The Director's primary responsibility is to promote excellent, ethical animal research at the university. To do this the candidate must have a strong working knowledge of relevant local, state, and federal regulations and accreditation standards (USDA, OLAW/PHS Policy, AAALAC International). Applicants should have at least five years of leadership experience of an AAALAC accredited animal facility, including all aspects of operations and clinical care and have demonstrated the ability to work collaboratively with researchers in a fast paced, multi-disciplinary environment. Candidates should be highly organized and motivated with excellent communication skills. Additionally, this position demands a leader who can maintain a learning-based environment and foster team building while managing budgetary constraints. Preference will be given to applicants who have a DVM or equivalent degree and are board certified in laboratory animal medicine (DACLAM). Collaborative research experience is strongly encouraged.

• Provide recommendations and training on animal handling, laboratory techniques, sedation, analgesia, anesthesia, surgical and post-surgical care, and other procedures. Provide diagnostic necropsy and coordinate pathological analysis of animals. Provide consultation and instruction to researchers in animal care and use including assistance in the design and/or implementation of specialized procedures, behavioral testing and breeding protocols.
• Provide veterinary support and consultation on IACUC protocols. Serve as a voting member on the IACUC. Work with the IACUC on preparation of documents and correspondence, and in collaboration with the IACUC Office and Chair, acts as a liaison for UC, internal administrators and external regulatory and accrediting agencies (e.g., OLAW, DoD, USDA, AAALAC). Prepare for, and participate in, institutional site visits by external oversight organizations (e.g. AAALAC, USDA, OLAW).
• Assist with evaluation/selection of new animal models and techniques and refinement of experimental procedures to enhance animal welfare. Assist and direct research and animal care staff training, including provision of continuing education and career development of LAMS staff.
• Interact with colleagues (e.g., IACUC) and representatives of outside regulatory agencies (e.g., USDA) fulfilling key regulatory responsibilities. Work as a team member in close partnership with the IACUC Office and Chair regarding overall animal program and regulatory functions. Work collaboratively with safety offices (Biosafety, Environmental Health and Safety, Occupational Health and Safety, and Radiation Safety) and Facilities Management as well as with industry partners and animal resource vendors.
• Oversee rodent biosecurity, disease prevention, and colony management.
• Oversee all operational and financial aspects of LAMS. Oversee animal imports/exports and the rodent health surveillance program.
• Serve as primary point of contact for dealing with violations, occupational health and safety issues and facility security.
• Inform and advise university leadership regarding issues and policies pertaining to animal care, use and welfare. Ensure the condition and care of the animal facility is in compliance with institutional standards and policies; local, state, and federal regulations; and accreditation guidelines.
• May provide direct and/or indirect supervision to exempt and non-exempt staff (i.e., hiring/firing, performance evaluations, disciplinary action, approve time off, etc.).
• Perform related duties based on departmental need. This job description can be changed at any time.

Doctoral Degree from a college or school of veterinary medicine that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or a certificate from either the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) or the Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence (PAVE).

• Board Certification with the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM).
• Current license to practice veterinary medicine in at least one (1) state is required with the requirement to obtain an Ohio license within one (1) year.
• Practitioner license (or license-eligibility) from the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
• Current National Veterinary Accreditation - Category II (USDA accreditation).

• Seven (7) years in laboratory animal medicine.
• Five (5) years of animal facility administrative experience (leadership and/or managerial) within an academic environment.

• Advanced research degrees (PhD, MS).
• Additional veterinary certifications.
• Experience working with unionized staff.
• Experience with faculty renovation and modernization.

A resume and cover letter are required as part of the application process. Attach these documents before submitting your application.