Supervisor, Research Associate

Altasciences Company; Scranton (Lackawanna County); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Altasciences Company is seeking an experienced Supervisor, Research Associate to lead a team conducting in-life preclinical studies across multiple animal models. You will partner with Study Directors and veterinarians to ensure high-quality, compliant research outcomes.

The role combines hands-on animal research leadership with oversight of study planning, execution, and documentation, driving excellence in scientific and welfare standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Biology, Veterinary Technology, Life Sciences, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of animal research experience.
• At least 1 year of leadership or supervisory experience in a research or laboratory setting.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and develop Research Associates and Research Specialists supporting in-life study activities.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute preclinical studies with Study Directors and Study Scientists.
• Monitor study progress to ensure adherence to protocols, timelines, and objectives.
• Develop and improve SOPs; ensure training and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain GLP compliance and accurate documentation of procedures and observations.

Skills

Leadership

Team development

Communication

Animal research

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Animal Science / Biology / Veterinary Technology / Life Sciences

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Are you an experienced animal research professional who thrives at the intersection of science, animal welfare, and leadership? As a Supervisor, Research Associate , you will play a pivotal role in advancing preclinical research by leading a team of skilled research professionals responsible for the in-life execution of studies across a variety of animal models.

This position offers a unique opportunity to combine your technical expertise in animal research with people leadership, study oversight, and operational excellence. You will partner closely with Study Directors, Study Scientists, Veterinarians, and cross-functional teams to ensure studies are executed with the highest standards of scientific quality, regulatory compliance, and animal welfare.

As a key member of the research operations team, you'll help shape study success from planning through completion while mentoring and developing the next generation of animal research professionals.

What You'll Do

Lead and Develop a High-Performing Research Team

• Supervise, mentor, and develop Research Associates and Research Specialists supporting in-life study activities.
• Drive employee growth through coaching, training, performance management, and career development.
• Participate in recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, and training new team members.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and science-focused team culture.

Support Successful Study Execution

• Partner with Study Directors and Study Scientists to plan, coordinate, and execute preclinical research studies.
• Monitor study progress during in-life phases to ensure adherence to protocols, timelines, and scientific objectives.
• Balance resources and workloads across Scientific Services to support efficient study delivery.
• Ensure appropriate animal model assignment and study scheduling to meet research needs.
• Attend study planning meetings and provide technical expertise regarding animal procedures, resource planning, and operational feasibility.

Advance Scientific Excellence

• Provide oversight for technical procedures, animal-based research activities, and data collection processes.
• Ensure study conduct aligns with protocols, regulatory requirements, and client expectations.
• Assist with troubleshooting research challenges, technical issues, and study-related concerns.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to continuously improve processes, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Serve as a scientific and technical resource for research staff and stakeholders.

Champion Animal Welfare and Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure animals are cared for in accordance with institutional, ethical, and regulatory standards.
• Promote a culture of excellence in animal welfare, humane care, and responsible research practices.
• Ensure staff adherence to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), study protocols, and facility procedures.
• Oversee accurate documentation of animal procedures, treatments, clinical observations, anesthesia events, necropsies, and study records.
• Maintain compliance with applicable regulations and accreditation standards.

Drive Operational Excellence

• Develop, review, and improve Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to animal research and technical operations.
• Ensure training programs remain current and compliant with organizational and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor department goals, key performance indicators, and study deliverables.
• Communicate study status, resource needs, and technical recommendations to management and project teams.

What You'll Bring

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Animal Science, Biology, Veterinary Technology, Life Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of animal research experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 1 year of leadership or supervisory experience in a research, laboratory animal science, or related environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• LATG certification or other professional laboratory animal science certification.
• Experience supporting GLP-regulated studies and preclinical research programs.
• Experience working with multiple laboratory animal species and research models.

Skills for Success

• Strong understanding of animal research methodologies, study conduct, and laboratory animal science principles.
• Demonstrated commitment to animal welfare and ethical research practices.
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Ability to manage multiple studies, competing priorities, and dynamic project timelines.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic research documentation systems.
• Ability to interpret technical protocols, procedures, and scientific documentation.
• Collaborative mindset with a passion for supporting research teams and scientific discovery.

Why Join Us?

Lead impactful preclinical research that contributes to the development of life-changing therapies. Work a