Animal Research Associate

Aragen; Morgan Hill (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Aragen Bioscience in Morgan Hill, California, is seeking an Animal Research Associate to execute preclinical in vivo studies in mice and rats, adhering to approved protocols and animal welfare guidelines. You will work with Study Directors and Scientists to ensure timely, accurate studies and robust documentation.

Responsibilities include handling, dosing, sample collection, record-keeping, and collaboration with veterinary staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or associate degree in biology, animal science, life sciences, biomedical sciences, or related field.
• Laboratory animal experience with mice and/or rats preferred; entry-level candidates will be considered.
• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, academic research, or CRO environments is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
• Ability to follow detailed protocols and SOPs and document work accurately.
• Ability to prioritize multiple activities and meet timelines.

Responsibilities

• Perform animal handling and study procedures in mice and rats, including dosing, blood collection, observations, necropsy, and tissue collection.
• Assist with study preparation, animal receipt and randomization, room and equipment setup, and study closeout.
• Perform specialized procedures and disease-model techniques following training and approved protocols.
• Process, label, store, and ship biological samples accurately.
• Maintain complete and timely study records, including observations, procedures, sample information, and other study data.
• Follow approved IACUC protocols, SOPs, animal welfare requirements, and applicable regulatory guidelines.

Skills

Attention to detail

Data quality

Teamwork & communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Associate degree in biology or related life sciences

Job description

Description

About Us

Aragen Bioscience is a leading contract research organization focused on accelerating product development. Aragen’s offerings include antibody discovery, recombinant protein production and purification, stable cell line development as well as cell-based assays and in vivo models of disease. We offer clients high-quality service and superior R&D partnerships

The Animal Research Associate supports and executes preclinical in vivo studies, primarily in mice and rats, in accordance with approved protocols, SOPs, animal welfare requirements, and study timelines. The position works closely with Study Directors and Scientists to ensure studies are conducted accurately, efficiently, and with high-quality documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform animal handling and study procedures in mice and rats, including dosing, blood collection, observations, necropsy, and tissue collection.
• Assist with study preparation, animal receipt and randomization, room and equipment setup, and study closeout.
• Perform specialized procedures and disease-model techniques following appropriate training and approved protocols.
• Process, label, store, and ship biological samples accurately.
• Maintain complete and timely study records, including animal observations, procedures, sample information, and other study data.
• Follow approved IACUC protocols, SOPs, animal welfare requirements, and applicable regulatory guidelines.
• Recognize and promptly communicate animal health concerns, unexpected findings, protocol deviations, or other study issues.
• Manage multiple study activities and priorities while meeting established timelines.
• Maintain study supplies and communicate equipment or supply needs.
• Work collaboratively with Study Directors, Scientists, veterinary staff, and other research personnel.
• Develop increasing technical proficiency and independence and assist with training less‑experienced personnel as appropriate.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor's degree in biology, Animal Science, Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field preferred.
• Laboratory animal experience, particularly with mice and/or rats, preferred; relevant entry-level candidates will be considered.
• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, academic research, or CRO environments is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
• Ability to follow detailed protocols and SOPs and accurately document work.
• Ability to prioritize multiple activities and complete work accurately and on schedule.
• Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills.
• Demonstrated initiative, willingness to learn, and ability to work independently when appropriate.

Preferred Experience

• Rodent routes of administration and blood collection.
• Necropsy and tissue collection.
• Anesthesia and surgical procedures.
• Preclinical disease models.
• AALAS certification or willingness to pursue certification.

Physical / Work Requirements

This is a laboratory- and vivarium-based position requiring routine handling of laboratory rodents, standing for extended periods, use of required PPE, and lifting of laboratory supplies and equipment.

Aragen Bioscience provides a stimulating work environment in which talented employees expand their technical skills and scientific knowledge and contribute directly to the ongoing success of the organization. We are in Morgan Hill, California, at the south end of the Silicon Valley. Great reverse Commute! We offer excellent salaries and benefits. Aragen is an equal opportunity employer.