BEHAVIOR SCIENTIST
JOB SUMMARY:
This position is responsible for performing the necessary work related to the human-animal interactions research program under minimal supervision. This position is located in St. Joseph, Missouri.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
· Develop & implement innovative testing methodologies aimed at improving our understanding of pet behavior, pet welfare and human-animal interactions
· Develop and implement cat and dog socialization, training and enrichment programs
· Perform cat and dog behavior assessments
· Collaborate with PetCare team to optimize pet welfare. Required activities include, but are not limited to:
o Train PetCare technicians on animal behavior, welfare issues, pet interaction, enrichment, grooming
o Develop pet behavior training programs and work with PetCare team on their implementation
· This position may require developing and implementing innovative testing methodologies for assessing acceptance and preference of litter material
· In collaboration with other business units, develop animal behavior-based products and services.
· Function as a project team leader as assigned. Required activities include, but are not limited to:
o Providing project leadership for the projects assigned
o Adherence to Company policy on protection of patent rights and intellectual property
o Ensuring all appropriate documents and project records are filed in the Central Project Files, whether paper or electronic
· Effectively communicate results through oral presentations and timely, written technical documentation and reports
· Knowledge of, and compliance with, the Animal Welfare Act and all procedures and protocols in the Nestlé Purina PTC PetCare Manual
· Conduct all activity in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and all required Company policies and procedures
· Maintain a safe, clean, and sanitary work environment
· Travel as necessary
· Practice safety in the work area
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
· Keep current in scientific discipline
· Continue development of project leadership skills
· Additional duties as assigned
SUPERVISION GIVEN AND RECEIVED:
· Direct supervision from Behavior Group Section Leader
· Indirectly supervise behavior research technician
JOB QUALIFICATIONS (Education, Experience, and Knowledge):
· Ph.D. in Animal Science, Psychology, Ethology or related discipline
· Strong background in research techniques, statistics, and experimental design
· Ability to work directly with cats and dogs
· Good communication and interpersonal skills
· Must be able to manage multiple projects/priorities
· Good organizational skills
· Computer literacy
· Pro-active/Self-Starter
SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS PREFERRED BUT NOT REQUIRED:
· Evidence of peer reviewed, published research
· Project management skills
· Extensive knowledge of non-invasive behavioral techniques
· Mastery of other languages besides English
Send your resume or CV to:
Daniel...@rd.nestle.com