What are the responsibilities and job description for the Zebrafish Facility Director position at Scismic?
Scismic is supporting the growth of an organization that has developed expertise in utilizing zebrafish models for drug discovery and toxicology testing. They are at the forefront of biotechnology, offering employees the chance to work on impactful and cutting-edge research.
The organization is seeking a Zebrafish Facility Director to join the team in Eugene, Oregon and using Scismic to screen applicants.
Job Type: Full-time, In person
Who you are:
As the Zebrafish Facility Director, you will oversee strategic planning, operational management, and innovation for IACUC-accredited zebrafish facilities at both the company and a partnering university. Your responsibilities include facility operations, team management, and fostering advancements in zebrafish research capabilities. Your role also involves direct participation in zebrafish husbandry and facility operations, ensuring high standards of care and efficiency. You will be reporting to the Chief Scientific Officer.
What you get to do:
Facility Management:
- Manage daily zebrafish facility operations in compliance with IACUC regulations.
- Oversee Tecniplast zebrafish systems, including troubleshooting and minor repairs.
- Maintain records of facility conditions, equipment maintenance, and animal welfare.
- The ideal candidate will have experience managing grant deadlines and collaborating with software teams, as we develop a transformative product designed to revolutionize the way zebrafish facility managers operate.
Strategic Leadership and Development:
- Develop and implement long-term strategies to grow the facility's capacity and enhance zebrafish research capabilities, aligning with the company research and development goals.
- Identify and pursue opportunities for external collaborations, partnerships, and grant funding to expand the zebrafish facility's research footprint.
- Lead initiatives to optimize workflows, introducing new techniques and technologies that improve efficiency and output.
Colony Management and Zebrafish Husbandry:
- Supervise and train staff in zebrafish care, breeding, and husbandry practices at both locations.
- Perform all husbandry duties as part of the team, including breeding fish, embryo maintenance, sample collection, and fluorescent screening.
- Monitor and manage the health and well-being of zebrafish colonies, including handling, feeding, and water quality management.
- Implement and oversee breeding protocols to maintain and expand zebrafish colonies.
People Management, Scheduling, and Coordination:
- Manage a small team of 2-3 zebrafish husbandry technicians
- Develop and manage schedules for daily tasks and research activities in alignment with lead scientist specifications.
- Coordinate with researchers to ensure that zebrafish are prepared and available for experiments according to project timelines.
Compliance and Safety:
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, including IACUC guidelines and institutional policies.
- Maintain safety protocols and contribute to a safe working environment for staff and animals.
Plumbing and Maintenance:
- Perform minor plumbing tasks related to the zebrafish rack systems and facility infrastructure.
- Coordinate with maintenance personnel for any major plumbing or facility repairs.
What will help you succeed:
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field is required.
Experience:
- Proven experience managing an IACUC-accredited zebrafish facility.
- Hands-on experience with Tecniplast zebrafish rack systems, including troubleshooting and maintenance.
- Minor plumbing experience or a willingness to learn.
Skills:
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
- Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to animal welfare and regulatory compliance.
- Google sheets maintenance and improvement including knowledge of basic formulas and functions
Additional Requirements:
- Ability to travel between Eugene colony locations, at company and the University in Oregon, on a regular basis.
You will receive the following benefits:
The company offers a full benefits package that includes:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Basic and Supplemental Life/AD&D Insurance
- 401k Plan with matching
- Dog friendly office
- Generous Flexible Time Off program
- Paid Holidays
- Flexible work schedules
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Events - including Summer BBQs, community service, & holiday-related events.
Physical Requirements
- Able to work upright and stationary and/or standing for typical working hours.
- Able to lift and move objects up to 25 pounds.
- Able to work in non-traditional work environments.
- Able to use and learn standard office equipment and technology with proficiency.
- May have exposure to potentially hazardous elements typically found in laboratory environments.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The organization is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that encourages, supports, and celebrates diversity. They actively seek to create an environment that reflects the global community we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.
Equal Opportunity
The organization is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. They recruit, employ, train, compensate and promote regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other protected category as required by applicable law.
