Job Description

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.

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