University of New Brunswick

Closing Date: October 4, 2024 at 4:00 PM

DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY: AQUATIC RESEARCH UNIT

The Aquatic Research Unit in the Biology Department at UNB Fredericton contains multiple rearing systems configured for static, flow-through or recirculating fresh water. The recirculating fresh-water systems include 5 commercial, custom-designed, recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) configured for cold water and are in operation to support breeding populations, teaching, and cutting-edge research with Arctic char and brook trout. Two additional RAS systems are commercial, off-the-shelf, units supporting breeding, teaching, and intensive multidisciplinary research with unique genetic lines of Zebrafish. Additional populations of organisms including guppies and planaria are housed in static aquaria and used to support the Biology Department's diverse array of undergraduate laboratories. All research and teaching applications involving aquatic organism are subject to oversight by UNB's Animal Care Committee and the requirements of the Canadian Council on Animal Care.

WHAT WE OFFER

Full-time | Continuing | Fredericton | On-Campus

Standard Work Hours: Mon - Fri | 8:15 am - 4:30 pm | 36.25 hours per week

Additional Working Conditions:

• Occasional travel is required for field trips.
• WHIMIS certification (or a willing to acquire).
• First Aid certification (or a willing to acquire).

Salary Range: $44,904 - $56,128 per annum

YOUR FOCUS

Reporting to the Chair of Biology, the Aquatic Technician is responsible for animal care oversight of the Aquatic Facility in the Department of Biology and ensuring users comply with the Canadian Council of Animal Care (CCAC) regulations. This position will also be responsible for laboratory teaching, primarily assisting with the setup and takedown of assigned laboratory and field sessions in coordination with course instructors.

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Aquatic Facility as it relates to animal welfare.
• Maintain records of Aquatic Facility inspections, user training, animal welfare inspections, and user compliance with CCAC regulations.
• Visit all animal-use areas twice daily and record any deficiencies that require correction, including follow-ups to ensure changes were made.
• Communicate with researchers and students to ensure they understand the need to ensure animal welfare.
• Participate on the UNB Animal Care Committee and liaise with the Director of Animal Care to ensure that facility operations meet the standards required by CCAC regulations and UNB policies and procedures.
• Prepare for any CCAC site visits and help implement their recommendations.
• Provide technical support for various undergraduate courses as assigned, including field courses when needed.
• Provide specimens for teaching labs at the appropriate time and monitor and replenish the required laboratory supplies and reagents.
• Monitor scientific equipment used in teaching labs to ensure it is in good working order and arrange for repairs if required.
• Assist with the development and implementation of new undergraduate teaching laboratories in consultation with the course instructor.
• Complete administrative work and sit on committees related to the position.
• Other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING

• A University Degree in Science in Biology with specialization in fish biology, aquatics, or related field.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience with the care of aquatic organisms.

Additional Strengths

• A Master of Science in Biology is considered a strong asset.
• Familiarity with the Canadian Council of Animal Care regulations is considered an asset.