JOB DESCRIPTION
This form summarises the purpose of the job and lists its key tasks.
It may be varied from time to time at the discretion of the College in consultation with the post holder.
Job Title: Animal Research Technician (Structure & Motion
Laboratory)
Job ref no: CBS/0118/12
Grade: 3
Department: Comparative Biomedical Sciences
Accountable to: Dr Jim Usherwood
Responsible for: N/A
Job summary:
The purpose of the job is to provide technical support to Dr Jim Usherwood’s Wellcome-funded research project
investigating the strategies and constraints of powering locomotion with muscle, using limbs that also support weight. The
role will include setting up experiments for whole animal locomotion studies, monitoring data collection and caring for the
animals while they become accustomed to the environment and during the experiments. Training will be provided in all
specialist skills and procedures including muscle physiology lab skills such as including solution making, single-fibre
mechanical measurements and analysis of muscle fibre-type. Any previous training in these areas will be an asset.
Competency: Knowledge and Experience
Key tasks:
 Source and maintain research animals.
 Provide daily care for the research animals during experiments. Liaise with other members of the research team and the
Biological Services Unit to ensure that an appropriate level of care is maintained at all times.
 Exercise and train birds and rodents.
 Maintain the laboratory in a clean and tidy condition.
 Maintain appropriate levels of laboratory consumables.
Competency: Investigation, Analysis and Research
Key tasks:
 Prepare apparatus, instrumentation and other materials such as chemicals and solutions for use in the research.
 Collecting whole-animal and muscle physiology data including: platform motion analysis and respirometry.
 Conduct experiments under the supervision of senior scientific staff.
 Perform measurements on birds and rodents during flight, treadmill and obstacle-course locomotion
 Prepare specimens and samples for analysis; particularly samples for determining muscle fibre-type using
immunohistochemical approaches.
 Record and store data collected in the research.
 Follow Good Research Practice (GRP) including keeping accurate records and monitoring and calibration of equipment
 Follow the College’s Health & Safety Policies and local safety procedures.
Competency: Initiative and Problem Solving
Key tasks:
 Carry out routine equipment inspections and safety checks.
 Identify and report animal welfare issues or technical problems promptly and in accordance with laboratory and
project procedures.
Competency: Communication
Key tasks:
 Keep accurate records of all aspects of the research.
 Participate in research team meetings and Structure & Motion Laboratory activities.
Flexibility: To deliver services effectively, a degree of flexibility is needed and the post holder may be required to perform
work not specifically referred to above.