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Wright State University

Veterinary Director, Laboratory Animal Research

Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio, United States, 45444

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Job Summary

This position reports directly to the Vice Provost for Research and Innovation and provides leadership, oversight and high‑standard veterinary care and clinical support for all animals used within the university’s animal research program. The incumbent will contribute to oversight and support for all activities associated with research animal care, use and welfare; clinical laboratory animal medicine, disease diagnosis, and prevention; and research techniques to assure that animal care and use is provided in accordance with all federal, state, and university laws, policies and regulations. The role includes working closely with the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to develop and implement policies and procedures that ensure humane animal treatment while maximizing research benefits to human and animal health. Maintaining AAALAC International accreditation is also a key responsibility. Minimum Qualifications

D.V.M./V.M.D. with at least four years’ experience in laboratory animal care is required. Experience should include extensive clinical, surgical and diagnostic procedures in rodents and other species. Licensed to practice Veterinary Medicine in the state of Ohio. USDA accreditation. Proficiency in laboratory information systems (LIS) and software. Familiarity with quarantine requirements, zoonotic diseases and management of rodents. Thorough understanding of regulatory compliance issues is required. Proven ability to lead and manage a team. Excellent problem‑solving and decision‑making skills. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. Sound judgement and decision‑making skills. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, demonstrated ability to interact professionally with investigators, students, and staff. Conflict management and problem‑solving skills. Preferred Qualifications

Board certification from the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine, or equivalent, is preferred. Essential Functions and Percent Of Time

Animal Care (25%):

Oversee and provide clinical care for the laboratory animals used in biomedical research or teaching activities. Activities include disease surveillance, diagnosis, and prevention; surgical services and support to include anesthesia guidance and recommendations for postoperative measures taken to encourage successful outcome of surgical techniques in rodents and other laboratory animals. Leadership & Oversight (25%):

Direct and manage the laboratory animal research program, including facilities, staff, and resources. Serve as the primary point of contact for animal care and welfare matters. Provide strategic direction for program growth, continuous improvement, and accreditation (e.g., AAALAC Int.). Maintain the Animal Care and Use training program to remain compliant with all requirements, ensure investigator access to training, and provide training updates as necessary. Provide direct oversight and management of the LAR budget. Plan and approve expenditures. Monitor account and purchase order balances to ensure funding is available for required expenses. Forecast and communicate future needs to Business Manager. Calculate per diem rates using federally compliant methods and ensure appropriate billing of all provided services. Manage applications for funding for equipment and facility improvements through grants, Capital Appropriations, or other means when opportunities are available. Assist Researchers with Protocol Implementation (25%):

Provide technical guidance and training to researchers and research animal care staff to support diverse research areas and protocols. This includes assisting researchers in the technical aspects of protocol design and implementation to assure that pain and distress in laboratory animals is minimized. Respond to researcher concerns and solve problems or recommend solutions. Communicate LAR updates with researchers and research staff. Serve as the attending veterinarian on the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), to provide information on laboratory animal medicine and ensure that animal research and teaching activities comply with federal, state, and local regulations and guidelines. Administration and Documentation (10%):

Ensure documentation of all clinical, research, training, and oversight activities to comply with federal regulations and University requirements. Receive and maintain controlled substances used for clinical care of research animals in accordance with DEA, Ohio Board of Pharmacy, and university requirements. Develop, implement, and control procedures related to acquisition, maintenance, quarantine, and disposition of research animals. Review and update relevant Standard Operating Policies and Procedures, applicable sections of the AAALAC Program Description, and other documents as required. Professional Development (10%):

Supports collaborative research in animal medicine, science and technology for the purpose of advancing scientific knowledge in areas such as technology, husbandry, disease, and medical/surgical care. Prepares and reports significant results of research at meetings of local, regional, or national professional organizations, and publishes findings in peer‑reviewed scientific journals. Attend appropriate workshops and seminars including veterinary care standards and regulations and development of academic and leadership skills. Other Related Duties (5%):

As assigned by the Vice Provost of Research and Sponsored Programs. EEO Statement:

Wright State University is an equal opportunity employer.

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