Research Technician II (Multiple Openings)

This individual will be responsible for conducting cognitive and behavioral studies with domestic dogs and assisting with associated behavioral coding and data management. The employee will also be responsible for research support tasks such as laboratory management, purchasing, record keeping, assisting with research protocols, processing of biological samples, and scheduling and coordination with study participants. Research will be conducted on-site at the University of Arizona's main campus in Tucson, AZ, with potential for travel to collect data at field sites in the United States. The employee's duties may require evening and/or weekend hours as needed to support behavioral studies with privately owned dogs from the community.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

• Perform routine study-related data collection procedures including cognitive and behavioral testing in domestic dogs, deployment of physical activity monitoring devices, dissemination and monitoring of surveys, and assistance with biological sample collection.
• Blood samples will be collected by a veterinary professional and the research technician II will help with processing of the sample (i.e. pipetting it into appropriate containers for storage). Assist with shipping logistics.
• This may involve periodic travel to assist with data collection at US field sites.
• Data management, including experimental measures and survey responses (organization of research videos, preparation of documents for data collection, data checking and organization for analysis).
• Research logistics including ordering of supplies, laboratory maintenance, scheduling and recruitment for study activities, organization and shipment of biospecimens for analysis, preparation, shipment and receipt of study materials to/from participants, protocol updates, and laboratory record keeping.
• Behavioral scoring of research videos and training of other personnel with these techniques.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to conduct behavioral testing, which is physically intensive and requires long periods of standing, squatting, kneeling, spending time on the floor, and physical handling of dogs
• Understanding of dog behavior and ability to work effectively with domestic dogs
• Strong organizational, time management, communication, and planning skills
• Attention to detail and ability to implement research protocols with precision
• Ability to assist veterinary staff with blood sample collection and to process blood samples following collection (e.g. pipetting, centrifugation).
• Competence with computer programs including Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
• Strong ability to communicate with and effectively support community research participants with study activities
• Ability preform routine duties of repetitive tasks to complete data collection

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• High school diploma or equivalent, or equivalent learning attained through experience required.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Bachelor's degree in a field related to animal behavior, psychology, biology, or veterinary / animal science.
• Experience with related research techniques.