Animal Research Associate Ii

Job Req ID: 691- Location: Vancouver, BC, CAN- Additional Locations: N/A- Department: In Vivo Pharmacology & PKAnimal Research Associate II:
Company Description

Why Work With Us

Nothing is more critical to our success than the quality of our team. The work we do is meaningful and impactful - we care about each other as well as the patients we serve. We offer challenging career opportunities, competitive benefits and an environment that recognizes and rewards performance.

This position will report to the Group Lead, In Vivo Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics and will be based in Vancouver, BC.

Zymeworks is proudly headquartered in our brand new, net-zero facility located in the vibrant Main St biotech hub of Vancouver, BC, with operations in Seattle, WA and Dublin, Ireland. We offer a hybrid work environment with most team members working in-office three days per week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Applies preclinical in vivo mouse pharmacology models to enable translation of cancer therapies.
• Handles mice (awake and/or under gaseous anesthetic, or after euthanasia) including subcutaneous, intraperitoneal and intravenous injections, frequent tumor measurements, blood and tissue collection, and regular health monitoring.
• Prepares drugs using sterile BSL procedures for administration to mice.
• Thaws, prepares and injects human immune cells via intravenous injection into mice.
• Performs mouse study-related administrative tasks including regulatory documentation and inputting scientific data records.
• Coordinates ex-vivo sample management including sample receipt/collection, organization and archiving. Maintains compete and accurate records throughout the process.
• Maintains high levels of productivity, organization, and teamwork in the laboratory including the use of inventory management systems.
• Documents detailed observations, methods, raw and analyzed data and results. Explains reasons for variances.
• Maintains workspace (laboratory and animal facility rooms) and performs routine duties in order to keep areas stocked, clean, neat and in efficient operational order.
• Effectively organizes and schedules activities in the animal facility and/or laboratory with teammates.
• Conducts all activities in accordance with scientific standards, Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) and OH&S regulations and established policies and practices.
• Fosters effective and collaborative working relationships with fellow employees and management.
• Mammalian tissue culture, including the maintenance of multiple tumor cell lines using sterile technique, as well as the expansion, cryopreservation and thawing of cell lines.
• Support routine analysis of biological samples using ELISA and MSD assays as needed
• Assist with isolation and culture of lymphocyte populations from mouse organs for pharmacodynamic analysis as needed.
• Prepare basic written reports and analysis of experiments. Consults with others for data interpretation. Communicates results and analysis to working group.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Minimum of BSc in a scientific discipline or Veterinary Technician Diploma and minimum 2 years hands-on experience in mouse husbandry and veterinary techniques, or an equivalent combination.
• Embody and champion Zymeworks’ values: Act with Integrity. Collaborate. Care.
• Adhere to the highest degree of professional standards and strict confidentiality on matters that require discretion.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to consistently perform tail vein injections to produce reproducible results is required
• Track record of working with and direct handling of small animal models (rodents) and performing procedures associated with test article administration and sample collection.
• Experience with mouse tumor models, including xenografts, in vitro cell culture techniques and/or immunological assays and syngeneic model experience is an advantage.
• Preparation and subcutaneous injection of tumor cell lines for initiating immuno-oncology models is essential.
• Proven interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively as a member of cross-functional team. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Good organizational skills and the ability to work effectively in a high paced, fast changing environment. Results-oriented.
• Working knowledge of regulations, standards and guidelines for care and use of vertebrate animals in research (CCAC guidelines) and animal care protocols.
• Commitment to performing work with the highest regard for animal welfare.
• Consistent and diligent attention to detail and excellent record keeping skills.
• Dedicated work ethic and flexibility to work full-time alone and/or in a small team in an animal facility.

Total Rewards

We offer a comprehensive total rewards package, which includes competitive salaries, generous benefits, an outstanding work environment, and excellent opportunities for professional growth. We re