Direct Hire Opportunity: Director of Preclinical Research & Veterinary Operations
Location: Iowa (with regional travel)
Role Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire via Medix
Compensation: $150,000 – $170,000 + Comprehensive Benefits & Relocation Assistance
The Opportunity
Medix is partnering with a premier biotechnology organization in Iowa that is redefining medical discovery through the development of gene-edited miniature pigs. These large-animal models are essential for evaluating new therapeutics and devices, helping researchers bridge the gap between the lab and human medicine.
We are seeking a Director of Preclinical Research to join the executive leadership team. This role is designed for a high-level preclinical expert—whether a DVM, PhD, or seasoned Research Scientist—who possesses deep, hands-on experience in swine model phenotyping, surgical procedures, and study management.
Core Responsibilities
- Scientific Leadership: Lead the company’s preclinical research offerings and animal care program. Oversee the husbandry and clinical health of diverse, gene-edited porcine models.
- Study Design & Execution: Act as a subject matter expert in client-facing discussions. Design protocols, characterize animal phenotypes, and manage study logistics from inception to final reporting.
- Advanced Technical Procedures: Maintain a high level of "hands-on" involvement, including:
- Placement and management of indwelling vascular catheters.
- Muscle biopsies and surgical/laparoscopic embryo transfers.
- Cardiac and abdominal ultrasound/echocardiography.
- Compliance & IACUC: Head the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Ensure all protocols meet or exceed USDA, OLAW, FDA, and AAALAC standards.
- Staff Mentorship: Train and evaluate technical staff in routine and intermediate veterinary/research procedures to ensure data integrity and animal welfare.
Required Qualifications
- Education: Advanced degree (DVM, VMD, or PhD) in Animal Science, Biology, or a related field.
- Note: Extensive hands-on preclinical experience may be considered in lieu of a specific doctorate if a track record of porcine research leadership is proven.
- Technical Expertise: Extensive hands-on experience with swine models in a biomedical or laboratory animal setting is mandatory.
- Model Knowledge: Deep understanding of the phenotypes, specific pathogens, and viral diseases impacting pig models.
- Regulatory Fluency: Strong grasp of federal and state regulations governing animal research (USDA Animal Welfare Act, PHS Policy, etc.).
- Surgical Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to perform or oversee complex porcine surgeries and diagnostic imaging.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- Location: Based in the Iowa City area; requires periodic travel to regional sites in Iowa and South Dakota for facility oversight and IACUC requirements.
- Environment: A hybrid of office leadership (50%) and active facility/surgical work (50%).
- Biosecurity: Work takes place in biosecure facilities requiring shower-in/shower-out procedures.
- Physical: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
Why Join This Team?
This is a rare opportunity to lead the development of "first-of-their-kind" animal models. Our client provides a collaborative, high-stakes environment where your technical expertise directly impacts the success of human therapeutic interventions.
Benefits Include:
- 401(k) with company match
- Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
- HSA and FSA options
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Life Insurance
- Relocation assistance available for the right candidate.
