GRAF Research Coordinator

About The Department Department: BSD ARC - GRAF The Animal Resources Center (ARC) at The University of Chicago supports animal research by ensuring humane care and proper use of all laboratory animals. It oversees all research animals on campus, manages six facilities and a business office, and includes husbandry, maintenance, operations, veterinary care, and finance/administration. ARC is part of the Office of Shared Research Facilities, which also manages BSD core facilities. Job Summary The GRAF Research Coordinator’s main duty is providing rodent colony breeding/production and technical support for research projects for Principal Investigators (PI), including maintaining mouse colonies within flexible film isolators, setting up and performing experiments. Under indirect supervision, this position performs moderately complex animal‑related duties such as gavage, injections, breeding schemes, tissue harvest, etc. The Coordinator collects, maintains and analyzes data, monitors compliance with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies, and may coordinate research support staff and provide PI training. Responsibilities Maintain breeding and experimental mouse colonies within flexible film isolators (including tag, tail, wean and colony status records). Prepare materials for experimental procedures with germ free and ex‑germ free associated animals. Perform experimental interventions with germ free and ex‑germ free associated animals and assist PI groups to conduct experiments within the facility. Perform weekly fecal specimen culture set‑ups and monitoring. Perform health checks and health observations. Assist with training PI group and other research personnel working in the GRAF. Assist with advanced procedures which may include anesthesia and surgery. Assist with facility maintenance, isolator tasks, and facility operations (equipment and supply preparation) and administrative support to the Technical Director of the GRAF. Under guidance analyzes clinical samples and specimens and reports results. Prepare specimens for examination and look for abnormalities using automated equipment and computerized instruments capable of performing multiple tests. Maintain safety, quality control, and quality assurance procedures for the laboratory. Perform other related work as needed. Education and Minimum Qualifications College or university degree in a related field is required. Preferred Education, Experience, and Certifications Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field or in a field relevant to animal research is strongly preferred. Experience in a scientific animal research setting or a Gnotobiotics facility. Previous work experience in an academic environment and biomedical research. Prior experience working with mouse colony management. AALAS certification or eligibility for certification at LAT level or higher. Computer proficiency with Word, Excel, and other basic programs. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and attention to detail. Knowledge of regulatory compliance. Strong teamwork, communication, and prioritization skills. Availability to work weekends and holidays on a rotational basis. Decision‑making and problem‑solving ability with capacity to handle multiple tasks in a short period. Working Conditions Mobility between facilities, work in a biological safety cabinet, and stationary positions including standing or sitting while performing assigned duties and periods of seated, computer‑based work. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Compensation and Benefits Hourly rate: $24.04 – $33.65 (subject to variation). The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs including health, retirement, and paid time off. Eligible employees have access to benefits programs and resources. EEO Statement The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. #J-18808-Ljbffr Biological Sciences Division at the University of Chicago