Animal Caretaker EFZ – axenic and gnotobiotic animal husbandry

The UniBE is at the pulse of time.
With us, you contribute to the solution of important societal tasks.

Start of work

01.09.2026 or by arrangement

Employment relationship

1 year with the option for extension

Institute / Place of work

Experimental Animal Center (https://eac.unibe.ch/facilities/index_eng.html)

Who we are

The Clean Mouse Facility (CMF) is a service of the interfaculty unit Experimental Animal Center (EAC) of the Universität Bern. It ensures the experimental housing of axenic and gnotobiotic mice at the highest qualitative level for biomedical research. Our work is based on the 3R principles (Reduce, Refine, Replace), the Culture of Care, and strict compliance with legal and ethical requirements.

Tasks

• Execution of daily animal husbandry work with mice in isolator and isocage systems (ABSL1 and ABSL2)
• Regular health checks and assessment of animals according to applicable guidelines
• Mating, breeding monitoring, and care of assigned mouse lines
• Supply of isolators with sterile material as well as execution of sterile imports and transfers
• Professional and sterile export of animals from isolators for scientific further use
• Documentation and data collection in the areas of animal husbandry, hygiene, and equipment
• Support in embryo transfer processes
• Sample collection according to applicable guidelines (e.g., microbiological control samples and genetic analyses)
• Cleaning, disinfection, and preparation work to ensure hygiene status (cages, bottles, connectors, operating materials, laboratory glassware, and equipment)
• Cooperation and exchange with scientists

Requirements

• Completed training as Tierpfleger*in EFZ (specialization in laboratory animals) or an equivalent qualification
• Experience in the care and maintenance of laboratory animals as well as in practical daily animal husbandry
• Experience in axenic or gnotobiotic animal husbandry is an advantage, but not a requirement -- careful induction will be guaranteed
• Careful, structured, and reliable way of working, even with routine tasks
• High sense of responsibility as well as enjoyment of precise work under strict hygiene and safety requirements
• Teamwork ability, initiative, and resilience in daily operations
• Willingness to work in the ABSL-2 area
• Spoken English skills required for exchange in the scientific environment

Your Benefits

Predictable weekend service with corresponding compensatory time off according to cantonal guidelines

Collaborative environment and ambitious team

Meaningful work and fair remuneration

Future-oriented perspectives

Working at the UniBE

The Universität Bern offers not only exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunity. Discover what distinguishes us as an employer and how you can progress with us.

Application and Contact

Please send your complete application (cover letter, CV, certificates, and references) by 16.08.2026 to admin.eac@unibe.ch

Questions about the position?

Karin Stettler
karin.stettler@unibe.ch

Questions about the application?

admin.eac@unibe.ch