Research Associate II-III (In Vivo/Vivarium)

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Research Associate II–III (In Vivo/Vivarium) – Job Description

ABOUT CERTIS ONCOLOGY SOLUTIONS:

Certis Oncology is an AI-enabled translational decision intelligence company dedicated to improving how cancer therapies are discovered, developed, and delivered to patients. We transform data into decisions that accelerate the development of cancer therapies and advance the promise of precision medicine for every patient.

Our Oncology Intelligence® platform brings together artificial intelligence, diverse oncology datasets, and experimental validation in patient-derived in vitro and in vivo models to generate actionable insights that help researchers make more confident decisions. By integrating predictive modeling, intelligent data exploration, and biological validation, we help reduce development risk and accelerate the delivery of innovative cancer therapies. The same technologies can be applied to predict therapeutic response for individuals undergoing treatment, helping advance the future of precision oncology.

Based in San Diego, we are a multidisciplinary team of scientists, data experts, and innovators united by a common purpose: improving outcomes for cancer patients. Together, we are working toward a future where every therapeutic decision is informed by the full context of available evidence.

The Research Associate II–III (RA2–3) in the vivarium is responsible for leading and executing complex preclinical in vivo oncology studies, advanced surgical models, and specialized dosing procedures. The RA2–3 works independently to execute study protocols, mentor junior staff, and ensure rigorous adherence to data integrity, animal welfare, and IACUC regulatory standards. 

Key Responsibilities

Advanced Surgical Procedures

Must be proficient in and independently execute complex subcutaneous, orthotopic, and targeted surgical models, including:

· Subcutaneous & Orthotopic Implants: Subcutaneous (SC) implants, Mammary Fat Pad (MFP) implants, Intramuscular Thigh implants, Intramuscular Pectoral implants, Peritoneum implants, Liver implants, Pancreas implants, Gastric implants, and Cecum implants.

· Cell Inoculations: Subcutaneous inoculations, Mammary Fat Pad (MFP) inoculations, Liver inoculations, Pancreas inoculations, and Intracranial inoculations.

• Perform surgical cannula placement/implantation for localized delivery.
• Manage full surgical oversight, including aseptic field preparation, post-operative care, and pain management tracking. 

Dosing & Specialized Administration

• Perform complex dosing routines, including:
  • Oral gavage (PO) 
  • Intraperitoneal (IP) 
  • Subcutaneous (SC) 
  • Intratumoral (IT) 
  • Intravenous (IV) tail vein administration 
  • Cannula dosing
• Troubleshoot dosing protocols and maintain strict adherence to study-specific dosing regimens and SOPs.

Study Management & Advanced PK/PD Sampling

• Execute longitudinal tumor tracking (caliper, imaging), body weight monitoring, and clinical scoring. 
• Perform complex serial blood collection via approved routes (e.g., submandibular, tail vein, retro-orbital, cardiac puncture). 
• Lead major study end-point takedowns, full necropsies, and precise tissue/tumor collection (including cryopreservation and biobanking). 
• Identify humane endpoints, track animal welfare metrics, and maintain accurate, real-time, non-GLP compliant data collection. 
• Identify study deviations, communicate issues promptly to the Study Director/In Vivo Manager, and implement corrective actions. 

Vivarium Oversight & Mentorship

• Assist in training, mentoring, and signing off on competencies for junior Research Associates (RA1) and animal care technicians.
• Prepare mice for procedures (anesthesia, shaving, surgical site prep) and manage post-operative recovery. 
• Maintain accurate study records, daily health logs, and inventory. 

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• RA II: Minimum 2–4 years of hands-on in vivo rodent experience in a biotech, CRO, or academic vivarium setting. 
• RA III: Minimum 4–6+ years of specialized in vivo rodent experience with demonstrated expertise in orthotopic surgical models.
• AALAS certification (LAT or LATg) is highly desirable.

Skills & Competencies:

• Proven expertise in advanced survival surgeries (intracranial, pancreatic, orthotopic models, cannula implantation).
• High proficiency in serial blood sampling, specialized dosing, and necropsy/tissue harvest techniques. 
• Strong knowledge of IACUC guidelines, AVMA euthanasia standards, and animal welfare regulations. 
• Demonstrated capability to work independently, manage study timelines, and train junior team members. 
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and written/verbal communication skills. 

Work Environment

• Position requires daily hands-on handling of rodents (mice) in a BSL-2 vivarium setting. 
• Work involves prolonged standing, bending, repetitive fine-motor movements, and wearing full PPE. 
• Requires flexible coverage, including rotating weekend, holiday, or evening shifts as dictated by study schedules. 

Reporting Structure

This position reports directly to the In Vivo Manager and works collaboratively with Study Directors and Scientists.

Requirements: