Program Overview

Vocational Training with the Career Goal of Laboratory Animal Caretaker

Introduction

The University of Konstanz offers a vocational training program with the career goal of laboratory animal caretaker, specifically designed for research and medical purposes. This program provides individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to care for and tend to animals in a laboratory setting.

Responsibilities of Laboratory Animal Caretakers

Laboratory animal caretakers are responsible for:

• taking care of and tending to animals
• recognizing and taking into account animal classification, anatomy, physiology, and behavior
• furnishing, cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining animal housing
• creating specific living environments
• transporting animals
• recognizing and preventing the outbreak of disease
• helping with the medical treatment of animals
• liaising with customers
• conducting quality assurance measures

What Do Laboratory Animal Caretakers Do?

Animals that do not grow up in their natural habitat require human attention and care. Laboratory animal caretakers must be familiar with the natural living conditions of the animals in their care, including their dietary needs, comfortable temperatures, and potential diseases. They are also tasked with breeding and rearing animals, as well as supporting veterinarians during examinations. Additionally, laboratory animal caretakers work in animal shelters, pet boarding facilities, veterinary hospitals, and laboratories, ensuring the welfare of the animals and observing relevant laws for animal protection.

Laboratory Animal Caretakers (Research and Medical Purposes)

In research and medical settings, laboratory animal caretakers:

• breed, keep, and care for hygienically and genetically defined animals
• select and implement appropriate work techniques
• implement measures for maintaining hygiene standards
• help with experiments
• practice good laboratory conduct

Am I Suited to This Vocational Training Programme?

To be eligible for this program, applicants should:

• have experience with animals
• be capable of empathy and keen observers
• be reliable and patient
• be able to exercise self-control
• be hands-on
• be able to inform others and communicate well in written and spoken German No prior knowledge is required, but applicants should have successfully completed the German "Hauptschulabschluss" or "Fachoberschulreife" school-leaving qualification. The training program lasts three years.

Where Will the Vocational Training Take Place?

This is a dual training program, where participants will complete their vocational training at the University of Konstanz's Animal Research Facility (TFA) and undergo schooling at an agricultural vocational school. The TFA boasts modern equipment and a particularly agreeable work atmosphere.

What's Particularly Great About This Programme?

This program offers:

• the opportunity to decide whether to work in a zoo, animal shelter, pet boarding facility, or in laboratories operated by businesses or universities before starting the training
• the chance to create species-appropriate living conditions that are as comfortable as possible for the animals
• the responsibility for other living beings

When and Where Should I Apply?

Openings are typically advertised in the local press and on the University of Konstanz's job openings web pages in the autumn of the year preceding the one in which the program starts.