Iacuc Protocol Review Specialist

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The MGH Office of Animal Welfare Assurance is a group of highly motivated individuals who work collaboratively to support and promote pre-clinical research at one of the leading research institutes in the country. Our office supports the IACUC who oversees the MGH animal care and use program. The IACUC acknowledges the essential role that animal research plays in making discoveries that turn into treatments, diagnostics, and devices that improve quality of life.

The IACUC Protocol Review Specialist will play a key role in managing a portfolio of protocols, working with the IACUC to ensure complete and consistent reviews that are fully compliant with Federal, State, and local regulation and policy. Partners with the research community to meet research needs while never compromising on animal welfare. Congruency reviews, education, process improvement activities and implementing changes in response to a dynamic environment are important aspects of this role.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Working independently, the incumbent will complete a diverse set of responsibilities to support the review of research protocols, ensuring proposals are in line with regulations and policies. Additionally, will collaborate with management and members of the team to support needs of the position as well as the services of the office. Work will include but is not limited to the following.

• Independently review animal research protocols for completeness and accuracy as well as adherence to all applicable federal/state regulations and institutional policies and guidelines for animal research.

• Set FCR and DMR agendas, assigning reviewers in accordance with regulation and policy.

• Attend meetings of the convened IACUC and provide guidance to membership, as needed, on regulatory issues and institutional policies and procedures. Ensure quorum requirements are met for each protocol review. Document minutes and IACUC decisions as required by regulation and institutional policy.

• Serve as voting member of the IACUC, participating in protocol review, semiannual facility inspections and program reviews, as well as review of animal welfare concerns and other IACUC business.

• Serve as the point of contact for Principal Investigators, research staff, IACUC members and ancillary reviewers throughout the review process.

• Make determinations regarding level of review required for research protocol amendments in accordance with Public Health Service policy. Manage the VVC review process and conduct administrative reviews.

• Manage the tissue use review process.

• Prepare for and participate in site inspections by city, state, Federal and accreditation officials.

• Keeps current on federal, state, local laws and regulations governing animal through attendance at conferences, workshops, seminars, or lectures.

• Presents at conferences and other meetings as appropriate.

• Participates in process improvement initiatives within the department as well as education and outreach programs.

• Serve as a resource and subject matter expert to colleagues, researchers and other applicable parties.

• Participates in other responsibilities, committees, projects and assignments as they arise.

SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Strong understanding of animal care and use within a research setting as well as regulations governing same. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of affiliated topics.

• Able to effectively communicate regulations, policies and practices across a diverse population.

• Knowledge of scientific terminology and routine research practices.

• Strong analytical, organizational and problem-solving skills along with the ability to work in a timely manner, meet deadlines and accommodate ad hoc responsibilities.

• Effective communication skills both oral and written with the ability to communicate complex information in an understandable manner. Professional representative of the department through all transactions, meetings, presentations and other engagement.

• Able to build and maintain relationships with all personnel internal and external to the organization.

• Adapt to new processes, policies and protocols, ensuring work is completed to current standards. Apply and communicate new information to support the knowledge base of others.

• Accurate recordkeeping and data management as well as computer use (Microsoft and databases).

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field required.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of IACUC, animal research, or related experience required.

• Demonstrated working knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing animal research.

• Current certification as an IACUC professional (CIPA) desirable.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Standard office environment. This is a hybrid position with a minimum expectation of 1 day on-site and 4 days remote.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY:

• Prudent use of hospital resources