This individual is responsible for regulatory oversight and compliance with state and federal requirements related to animal research. They organize and lead programmatic review and maintenance; oversee the IACUC review and approval process of animal research protocols, amendments, SOPs; and use regulatory expertise to advise the IACUC, IACUC Chair, and ACP on oversight activities and develops policies and guidelines pertaining to ethical animal care and use. They serve as a subject matter expert and main point of contact for internal and external stakeholders on all aspects of IACUC operations. They manage the IACUC office, and work with the Attending Veterinarian (AV), the ORRS and Office of Research and Innovation (OR&I), and the faculty to meet Michigan State University’s responsibilities associated with its program for the humane care and use of animals in research and education. This individual will be responsible for disseminating information to the IACUC, ORRS, OR&I, Campus Animal Resources (CAR), and the faculty related to the federal rules and regulations and accrediting body requirements for the ACP. Responsibilities include the administration and daily activities of the IACUC office and coordination of the IACUC Oversight Group which includes the IACUC Administrator, the IACUC Chair and/or Vice Chair, the AV, and IACUC staff.
SPECIFIC DUTIES:
Responsible for regulatory oversight and compliance with state and federal requirements related to animal research. They organize and lead programmatic review/maintenance, oversee IACUC review and approval of animal research protocols, amendments, SOPs; and use regulatory expertise to advise the IACUC, IACUC Chair, and ACP on oversight activities and develops policies and guidelines pertaining to ethical animal care and use.
Participates on the leadership team for the ACP reporting to the Associate Vice President for the ORRS and the Institutional Official, the Vice President for Research and Innovation. Supports the IACUC, ACP, ORRS, and OR&I by providing advice, information, and updates.
Serves as a subject matter expert and main point of contact for internal and external stakeholders on all aspects of IACUC operations. Maintains a thorough knowledge of federal regulations, requirements, and policies as well as accrediting body expectations and shares this information with the IACUC, CAR, ORRS, and OR&I. Develops communication strategies to enhance education and compliance. Develops forms and manuals.
Provides orientation, training, guidance, and support (resources, documentation) to IACUC members in the fulfillment of their duties as outlined in state and federal regulations. Serves as the primary interface between the IACUC and the faculty regarding policies, procedures, and processes for the use of animals at Michigan State University. Coordinates oversight, site visits, and inspections by external regulatory and accrediting bodies to include development of the Assurance and the Program Description. Reviews and monitors all IACUC processes for compliance with federal regulations.
Oversees the IACUC facility and laboratory inspection program, including semiannual review of programs and inspection of facilities. Ensures that inspections of all animal facilities as well as sites where animals are used are conducted as required. Ensures appropriate record keeping. Reviews and monitors plan for correction of deficiencies. Prepares report of the review for ORRS and OR&I. Works with IACUC to investigate and report 1) allegations of noncompliance or concerns regarding the use of animals and 2) all whistle blower activity related to the animal care program. Also manages communication between Henry Ford Health and MSU IACUCs.
Consults with faculty and staff on protocol preparation to ensure complete and accurate description of work to be performed. Manages and facilitates the online submission and review of animal use protocols. Ensures that all personnel involved in animal care, treatment, and use are qualified to perform their duties. Provides orientation and training for faculty, staff, and students on requirements, policies, and procedures of the MSU Animal Care Program. Provides resources, documentation, and training to assist the IACUC in evaluation and enhancement of the University’s training program for the humane care and use of animals. Coordinates and/or conducts other training and workshops as needed.
Responsible for understanding and working with campus veterinarians to implement required regulations related to the use of animal research, teaching and testing. Monitors external collaborations, partnerships, sub-contracts, and off-site activities. Coordinates ACP responses to Freedom of Information Act requests. Develops IACUC guidelines and procedures.
Maintains official IACUC records in compliance with federal regulations and University policies. Maintains documentation of compliance for inspection by outside agencies. Prepares reports to federal and accrediting bodies. Manages preparation of meeting agendas and official minutes. Reviews and prepares correspondence for the IACUC.
Submits AAALAC program descriptions and manages site visit every 3 years. Manages the PHS Assurance for MSU (submitted every 4 years). Manages MSU/USDA Contingency plan for the Animal Care Program.
Serves as a liaison to national organizations, other IACUCs, federal agencies, cooperating institutions, and other universities. Maintains contact with MSU academic, research, and administrative departments on matters of animal research and related training and educational programs. Represents office at departmental, university-wide, and appropriate extra-university functions. Works with other units in the Office of Research Regulatory Support to enhance team approaches to address common challenges within regulatory affairs and the university.
Responsible for day-to-day operations of the IACUC office. Submits annual IACUC budget. Formulates budget and expenditure controls. Approves and manages employee time and submits annual reviews. Screens applicants, hires, trains, supervises, and terminates employees.
Performs other duties as assigned
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in biomedical science (e.g. Biology, Physiology), Business Administration, or Management; five to eight years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in campus animal resources, IACUC, compliance offices, developing research projects, and/or funding and grant practices; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Desired Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree preferred. Science background helpful but not required. CPIA certification preferred. Five years progressively increasing management experience. Documented skills in independent decision-making and problem-solving and oral and written communications. Candidate must be self-directed and self-motivated, able to work independently yet in cooperation with the IACUC, CAR, and ORRS. Knowledgeable about research and education with animal subjects. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Exhibits effective organizational skills, attention to detail, the ability to work on multiple tasks, and time management skills. Ability to supervise staff, mediate and resolve conflicts, and distribute workload.
Experienced with software (CLICK) for animal use forms which faculty and IACUC reviewers use. Proficient in IT and troubleshooting of software glitches. Excellent communication/teaching skills to assist faculty/IACUC reviewers with any difficulties they encounter. Organization skills to move forms through the review process in a timely manner.