University Attending Veterinarian – Associate Director of the Laboratory Animal Resource Center (LARC)

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As the flagship higher education institution of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young University (BYU) strives to be among the exceptional universities in the world. At BYU, we are devoted to our faith and to our students. We take an active role in the University's Mission: "To assist individuals in their quest for perfection and eternal life.” 

Our unique mission, deeply rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, provides countless ways to serve and make an impact. This, along with our remarkable culture of belonging, weekly devotionals, and endless opportunities for learning and growth—all situated within a beautiful and historic campus—make it hard to imagine a more inspiring place to work. 

Brigham Young University strongly prefers to hire faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Job Description

University Attending Veterinarian – Associate Director of the Laboratory Animal Resource Center (LARC)

The University Attending Veterinarian – Associate Director of the Laboratory Animal Resource Center (LARC) oversees the LARC program within the Vivarium facilities at Brigham Young University (BYU) in addition to their role as University Attending Veterinarian which provides veterinary care for all laboratory animals used in teaching or research. Oversee all researchers using animals and keep them in compliance with Federal Regulations.

What you will be doing in this position:

ANIMAL CARE AND WELFARE

• The University Attending Veterinarian is responsible for the well-being and clinical care of animals used in research, testing, teaching, and production. This responsibility extends to monitoring and promoting animal well-being at all times during animal use, and during all phases of the animal's life.
• It is expected that the program of veterinary care will uphold the highest standards of care and ethics. Moreover, the veterinarian must have sufficient authority, as provided by the institution, to treat an animal and institute appropriate measures to relieve severe pain or distress, including euthanasia, preventative medicine and health surveillance, medical treatment, establishment of sedation, anesthetic and analgesic guidelines, handling, and immobilization, and should have oversight of other related aspects such as housing and husbandry.
• In fulfilling these duties in a research environment, the Attending Veterinarian should interact collaboratively with the research team (e.g., the Principal Investigator) when making critical decisions regarding animal health and welfare. Provide veterinary medical care, and emergency veterinary care in a timely manner, after work hours, on weekends, and on holidays.

SUPERVISING AND TRAINING

• Provide certification for research personnel performing surgical procedures to assure adequate training in aseptic techniques and surgical competency.
• The Attending Veterinarian must have adequate resources to manage the overall program of veterinary care. Other qualified individuals may assume some of the roles and responsibilities of the Attending Veterinarian, under the oversight of the Attending Veterinarian.
• Know and understand all laboratory animal care and husbandry regulations. Ensure Federal Regulations are distributed and followed in Brigham Young University’s ARC program and vivarium facilities.
• Provide clinical and/or program oversight and support. Provide training and expertise necessary to appropriately evaluate the health and well-being of the species used, in the context of the animal use being carried out by the institution.
• Provide Animal Care Staff with education and background necessary to recognize the potential for adverse clinical complications that may arise from experimental procedures

IACUC

• Be a voting member of the IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee).
• Counsel with principal investigators before submission of IACUC proposals to make sure proposed procedures meet Federal Guidelines.
• Provide input in protocol review, the development of study removal criteria, and responsible conduct of research activities.
• Provide in cooperation with the IACUC criteria to classify major versus minor surgical procedures.
• Be available to accompany USDA Veterinarian on Inspection of Facilities.
• Complete certifications and reports required by State and Federal Government
• Perform regulatory functions as directed by the IACUC

What qualifies you for this role:

Minimum Education/Experience Required

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM) from a recognized and accredited school of veterinary medicine; Licensed DVM in a state, with the attainment of Utah license within 1 year of employment.
• Needs to understand Federal Regulations and the needs of laboratory animals

Preferred Experience

• Experience in a veterinary or animal care setting

Skills, abilities, knowledge, licenses, certifications

Required

• Current knowledge of laboratory animal medicine.
• Skills to establish, influence and maintain collaborative relationships with diverse individuals while providing and ensuring quality veterinary care and programmatic and regulatory compliance.
• Management skills to hire, train, develop, mentor and effectively manage employees and ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
• Interpersonal skills to set the tone for a program that promotes an interactive, quality service oriented atmosphere and teamwork approach in working with faculty and staff.
• Written and verbal communication skills to communicate and correspond in a professional and clear manner.
• DEA License.
• USDA accreditation

Preferred

• Knowledge of institutional, local, state, national, and international rules and regulations governing the use and care of laboratory animals (USDA Animal Welfare Act, ILAR Guide for the Care and use of Laboratory Animals, Endangered Species Act, FDA Good Laboratory Practice Regulations, and AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia).
• Experience in preventive medicine programs required for laboratory animals, agricultural species, aquatic species, amphibians, reptiles and other exotic species including vaccination, parasitology, bacteriology, and virology screening programs.
• Experience working in and around research animals and facilities including knowledge of animal research regulations.

Include with application:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/CV
• Letters of recommendation
• Name and contact information for 2 professional references

Required Documents:

All Staff positions require a resume.

Refer to the Job Posting for any additional required documents.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints must hold and be worthy to hold a current temple recommend.

Brigham Young University is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

Brigham Young University (BYU) is widely recognized not just for its world-class education, but for its deep commitment to inspired religious values. Gathered together in a Christ-centered atmosphere, BYU employees are a vital part of a community of belonging, where we value the experiences, perspectives, and talents of each individual. If you share in our devotion to faith and to excellence, we have a place for you here at BYU!