Junior Animal Scientist
Epivara
ABOUT Epivara
Epivara is a biotechnology company developing non-surgical sterilization technologies for animals. We aim to transform animal reproduction management through safe, effective, and accessible pharmaceutical solutions.
About The Role
To strengthen Epivara’s R&D capabilities, we are seeking a motivated and dependable Junior Animal Scientist to support animal R&D activities in a paid, professional role; recent graduates are encouraged to apply. The role will support projects involving pigs, dogs, cats, and potentially other species, with primary responsibility for routine pig-related activities during active studies and support for dog, cat, and other animal projects as needed. The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in animal science or biology, excellent attention to detail, and commitment to animal care and welfare. The position offers broad, hands-on experience across species while contributing to meaningful scientific work in a growing organization
Requirements
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Biology, or a closely related field
- Strong interest in animal research and health, and hands-on animal work
- Willingness and ability to take primary responsibility for routine pig activities during active studies
- Willingness and ability to support dog, cat, and other animal projects as needed
- Ability to follow facility biosecurity requirements, including movement restrictions between facilities
- Attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation
- Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills
- Ability to follow instructions, protocols, and safety requirements
- Dependability, professionalism, adaptability, and willingness to learn
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Recent graduates are welcome to apply; professional research experience is not required if applicants demonstrate relevant academic, laboratory, farm, veterinary, animal care, or other transferable experience
The following experience is helpful but not required:
- Hands-on experience with pigs, cats, dogs, or other animals
- Animal-related experience gained through coursework, research, farm work, veterinary settings, shelters, kennels, laboratories, or other animal care environments
- Familiarity with animal behavior and husbandry, sample collection, documentation, or data entry
- Familiarity with research protocols, facility biosecurity, or regulated research environments
- Availability for occasional work hours flexibility
Responsibilities
- Serving as the primary team member for routine pig-related activities during active studies, including daily pig care, observation, handling, and monitoring during active studies
- Assisting with dog and cat studies when pig activities are not scheduled or no pig study is active
- Coordinating animal projects under facility biosecurity requirements, including separation periods between facilities
- Preparing for and carrying out animal studies and related procedures under appropriate supervision
- Accurately collecting and recording animal observations, study data, samples, and other project information
- Assisting with scheduling and supply preparation, inventory, equipment, and facility organization
- Following study protocols, standard procedures, animal welfare requirements, and applicable safety, biosecurity, and regulatory practices
- Collaborating with scientists, veterinarians, animal care personnel, university partners, and other team members
- Assisting with data organization, literature reviews, reports, and related scientific or administrative tasks
- Traveling between Epivara’s office, university-owned laboratories, and farms in UrbanaChampaign (a personal vehicle is required)
Schedule and Benefits
This position may be part-time or full-time (40 hours per week). Part-time hours vary with project needs and candidate availability. The arrangement depends on Epivara’s needs, the position’s scope, and candidate qualifications. Please state your preference in the cover letter.
- Full-time: Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. Benefits include health insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) plan, and others.
- Part-time: Hourly Rate will be determined based on experience, scope of responsibility, and weekly commitment. Benefits include paid time off, a 401(k) plan, and others.
How to Apply
Please email the following materials to hello@epivara.com:
- A current resume
- A cover letter explaining:
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- Your relevant education and experience
- How your experience applies to the responsibilities described in this posting
- Why you are interested in working at Epivara
- Your comfort and experience with pigs, cats, and dogs
- Whether you are seeking part-time or full-time employment
- Your general availability and earliest possible start date
Applications must be received by September 13, 2026. The recruitment period may close early if a suitable candidate is hired. The selected candidate is expected to begin as soon as possible following the application period. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
More information: epivara.com