Director : Su Animal Research Facilities And Experimental Animal Veterinarian

University Of Stellenbosch; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed institution is seeking a dedicated veterinarian to oversee animal research facilities, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and animal welfare. In this pivotal role, you will manage staff, develop policies, and ensure the health and safety of research animals. The position offers opportunities for independent research and student supervision, making it ideal for those passionate about veterinary science and education. Join a collaborative environment where your expertise will contribute significantly to advancing animal research and welfare.

Qualifications

• BVSc, BVMCh, or equivalent veterinary qualification required.
• At least three years of recent clinical experience necessary.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with veterinary regulations and standards.
• Train and supervise staff and students in animal care.
• Perform veterinary procedures and manage health programs.

Skills

Veterinary Medicine

Animal Welfare

Staff Management

Clinical Experience

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Computer Literacy

Education

BVSc or BVMCh

Postgraduate Qualification

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

Job description

Job Title / Posbeskrywing: Director: SU Animal Research Facilities and Experimental Animal Veterinarian

Location / Area: Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University

Organization / Organisasie: FMHS Animal Research Facility

This is a shared position between the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (Tygerberg Campus) and the Faculty of Science at Stellenbosch University. At SU, we value the ethical use and performance of research on animals, prioritizing animal welfare.

The ARF conducts research to identify root causes of diseases in humans and animals and explore treatments. All research must be approved by the Research Ethics Committee: Animal Care and Use (REC: ACU) and comply with relevant legislation and standards, including SAVC, SANS, DALRRD, REC: BES, and NSPCA.

A SAVC-registered veterinarian must supervise all invasive animal research and facilities. Stellenbosch University seeks a SAVC-registered veterinarian to oversee the SU Animal Research Facilities, ensuring standards for animal health, welfare, safety, and regulatory compliance across the Faculties of Science and Medicine and Health Sciences.

Responsibilities include staff training, certification, supervision, and performing surgical and euthanasia procedures. The appointee will report to the Vice Dean: Research and Internationalisation (80%) and the Director: Faculty Management (20%). The incumbent will act as the principal for all animal research facilities at SU, in accordance with the Veterinary and Para-Veterinary Professions Act and related regulations.

Duties include:

1. Ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and standards (Veterinary and Para-Veterinary Professions Act, SANS, Animal Diseases Act).
2. Managing strategic planning and budgeting.
3. Developing policies, guidelines, and SOPs in consultation with REC: ACU.
4. Ensuring facilities meet SAVC, SANS, DALRRD, REC: BES, and NSPCA requirements.
5. Line management of staff.
6. Serving on the REC: ACU and implementing its decisions.
7. Training and supervising staff and students in animal care and use, ensuring proper authorization and compliance with veterinary regulations.
8. Maintaining SAVC authorizations for staff/students.
9. Managing health and safety and animal welfare programs.
10. Performing veterinary procedures as needed.
11. Providing expert advice on animal research design and execution.
12. Organizing workshops and short courses on experimental animal research.
13. Ensuring anesthesia and surgery are performed by qualified personnel, with veterinary support available at all times.
14. Overseeing legal compliance concerning scheduled drugs.
15. Monitoring and inspecting animal handling, housing, and disposal processes.
16. Additional opportunities include engaging in independent research, supervising students, and publishing, constituting about 20% of the role.

An academic rank may be offered based on research achievements.

Qualifications include: BVSc, BVMCh, or equivalent veterinary qualification. Postgraduate qualification in any field. Registration with SAVC for independent veterinary practice. At least three years of recent clinical experience. Experience in staff management. Knowledge of small animal medicine and surgery. Experience in teaching and demonstrating technical skills. Proficiency in English communication. Interpersonal skills. Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, internet).