The California National Primate Research Center (CNPRC) is an Organized Research Unit which conducts interdisciplinary research programs on significant human health related problems where nonhuman primates are the animal models of choice. In addition to its major efforts in the area of research, the CNPRC is also committed to its missions of teaching and service.

Job Summary

Under general direction of the PI in the Neuroscience and Behavior Unit, following established procedures, provide technical support for projects on aging in the nonhuman primate. Collect data for laboratory studies using nonhuman primate models using physiological and behavioral approaches. Duties will be carried out at the California National Primate Research Center (CNPRC) in Davis. Duties include physiological and behavioral data collection, maintenance of large datasets, and preparation of biological samples for assay. Apply technical and theoretical knowledge of animal behavioral assessments, observations, scans, and recording for scientific behavioral testing and monitoring. Perform technical research and prepare technical reports, and perform data collection and summary. Effectively collaborate on research projects as directed by protocols and research goals. On assigned projects, manage data collection, entry and analysis; and troubleshoot, recommend, and develop new techniques.

POSITION INFORMATION

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Performs diversified tasks that may often require squatting, kneeling, bending, stooping or standing.
• Substantial contact with animals. Handle, move, and transport animals. Move and handle a variety of animals weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Position requires repeated movement, repetitive procedures, operating and maintaining equipment, and safely lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds.
• Perform assigned duties in BioSafety Level 2 and 3 conditions where non-human primates may be either naturally or experimentally infected with potentially hazardous infectious agents such as HIV, SIV, or Herpes B virus.
• Wear protective clothing for extended periods of time including gown, lab coats, gloves, masks, face shields, and head covers. -Use and disposal of radioactive isotope, hazardous materials and other environmental health and safety procedures.
• Use of a fumehood and/or biosafety cabinet may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Measles vaccination or documentation of illness required. This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy.
• Individual will work routinely with animal and specimens and chemical agents.
• Must perform assigned duties in BioSafety Level (BSL) 2/3 conditions where non-human primates may be naturally or experimentally infected with potentially hazardous diseases such as SRV, SIV, HIV, STLV, HTLV or Herpes virus.
• Position requires employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious agents are present. In such instances, employee will be required to wear protective clothing for personal protection from infectious diseases and animals.
• Must be able to work irregular hours (early mornings, early evening, and/or weekends, as needed). Work occasional weekends and holidays.
• Primary work location CNPRC; occasional work at the MIND Institute in Sacramento may be required.
• California National Primate Research Center employees are directly or indirectly engaged in the performance of work on Federal or State contracts and grants as well as periodically come into contact with controlled substances; and are expected to abide by the UC Policy on Substance Abuse, the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, and the State Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1990.
• The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier, safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdavispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Education/Experience:

• Academic education and training in Psychology, Anthropology, Neuroscience, Animal Behavior.
• Experience utilizing formal behavioral observation methods and techniques to monitor and record social interactions among nonhuman primates.
• Experience using MS Excel and MS Access for data entry, upload, review, and data maintenance and management, including experience manipulating and analyzing large datasets.
• Experience following research protocols, and oral/written instructions with attention to detail.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) :

• Effective communication skills to interact professionally with a diverse group of people including but not limited to investigators, visitors, veterinarians, students and staff.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and proper use, handling, monitoring, measurement and disposal of biohazardous substances.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Education/Experience:

• Experience utilizing formal behavioral observation methods and knowledge of non-human primate behavior and techniques to monitor and record social interactions among nonhuman primates.
• Experience processing biological samples.
• Experience working in a BSL2+ or greater facility.
• Familiarity with implementation and use of technology in laboratory settings and experience using statistical software for managing data sets.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) :

• Independent thinking and problem-solving skills for research and technical problems.
• Organizational skills to coordinate projects, summarize data, prioritize workload and follow schedules, meet deadlines, to accommodate changes in projects as the need arises, and strict attention to detail with high level of efficiency.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Background Check

This position is a critical position and subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation including criminal history and identity checks.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

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The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.