Milca Rosa Velazquez
Oakland,CA
Summary
Accomplished IACUC Project Coordinator skilled in office administration and building strong relationships. Successfully fostered collaborations and ensured compliance with the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), and the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) standards. Demonstrated expertise in the accreditation process for AWA, OLAW, and AAALAC, which has enhanced animal welfare standards. Excelled in collaborative projects that significantly improved protocol efficiency and compliance. Proficient in both English and Spanish, promoting diversity and inclusion in all endeavors.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
IACUC Project Coordinator
Genentech-Charles River Laboratories
09.2023 - Current
- Utilize software tools, including Lab Animal Protocol and Tracking System and Excel, to track protocols, amendments, and annual reviews and generate various reports and services.
- Participate in protocol approval process by pre-reviewing new experimental protocols and submitting packets for new experimental protocols, new breeding, amendments, and renewals to the designated committee.
- Review protocols, amendments, and annual reviews for any missing items.
- Manage the prioritization of IACUC Office Protocol Reviews, update amendments, compile DMR review comments, and communicate updates to protocol submitters and investigators.
- Actively communicate with researchers and staff to address requests, inquiries, and concerns while assisting.
- Review, understand, and comply with all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) of the IACUC office.
- Collaborate with Lab Animal Research staff to create and refine SOPs, policies, and processes.
- Review and comply with the Animal Welfare Act, the "Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals," and policies and guidelines set forth by OLAW and AAALAC.
- Assist in maintaining the calendar for the Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) meetings, site inspections, and AAALAC inspections.
- Help schedule appointments and keep track of critical dates for the IACUC office and individual projects.
- Manage office communications by receiving and responding to emails, taking detailed messages, and forwarding urgent matters or arranging meetings as required.
- Supported the coordination of monthly IACUC meetings by preparing agendas, attending meetings, ensuring meeting rooms were set up, taking attendance, and assisting in writing and proofreading the minutes.
- Organize, maintain, and protect the confidentiality of office files related to IACUC activities.
- Perform data entry, including word processing (typing minutes, manuscripts, reports, and personnel training documentation) to ensure databases are continuously updated. Use Excel to prepare lists and charts regarding protocols, personnel, animal facilities, labs, and supplies.
- Provide additional administrative support to the IACUC office as needed, such as assisting with onboarding new trainees, managing new training for current animal users, processing training and Lab Animal Research visitor documents, updating SOPs, and compiling DMR minutes.
- Send reminders and track compliance concerning Semi-Annual Reviews.
- Update animal facility signage, including contact information and notifications regarding non-compliance.
- Assist with protocol checks for tumor mice by updating flank tumor signs and ensuring appropriate language is included in relevant protocols.
- Support aging mice status and colony management by updating weight spreadsheets and notifying veterinary staff about health concerns.
- Prepare and submit required written records, charts, logs, and IACUC office file inventories as requested.
Adjunct Professor-Online- Animal Science Dept.
Unity Environmental University
04.2023 - Current
- Taught an Animal Nutrition course with focus on nutritional physiology and the role of nutrition in the
development of disease. - Taught an Animal Science Medical Terminology course to make students interested in the veterinary
medical fields acquainted with veterinary medical concepts, medical terms and scientific principles. - I trained students in the following areas:
- Research ethics principles and the appropriate use and care of animals in research.
- Terminology and principles related to animal nutrition and its impact on animal health.
- Nutritional components and requirements that affect the health and welfare of animals.
- Nutritional information necessary for raising animals in a controlled environment.
- The connection between a proper animal diet and the prevention and management of chronic diseases. - Evaluated and revised lesson plans and course content to achieve student-centered learning.
- Graded homework, and projects to provide students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
- Encouraged class discussions by building discussions into lessons, actively soliciting input, asking open-ended questions and using techniques to track student participation.
- Managed student performance using automated reporting system, leveraging data to identify student learning needs and create action plans to overcome learning deficiencies.
- Built strong rapport with students through class discussions and academic advisement.
Animal Scientist
Dept. of Animal Science, Ohio State University
03.2019 - 11.2022
- Highly motivated Animal Scientist with experience supporting IACUC Administration and
regulations governing in vivo animal research leading to the successful execution of 8
scientific research projects that champion the 3Rs. - Design and conduct in vivo research focused on the effects of prenatal maternal dietary supplementation on offspring development, physiology, immune response, and energy metabolism.
- Responsible for animal handling and care, including sample collection, preservation, and analysis.
- Oversee research animal housing and husbandry conditions, and write and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Report research findings in various venues, such as international conferences and scientific literature.
- Supervise, train, and mentor junior researchers and research assistants.
- Schedule and manage work distribution among research staff, matching project needs with their skills.
- Serve as the point of contact for principal investigators, research assistants, and affiliated staff regarding study protocols, amendments, lab and research site management, coordination, supply orders, lab inspections, and overall study management at an AAALAC-accredited facility.
- Ensure compliance with institutional policies, procedures, and best practices related to data protection and animal use and care.
- Assist in grant proposals and protocol amendments for research projects, and identify and address deviations from standards and policies.
- Maintain a calendar for research projects, planning for animal sample collection, meetings, and site inspections.
- Utilize a variety of educational delivery methods to help stakeholders understand and adopt new practices, procedures, and skills based on current scientific findings.
- Coordinate events to introduce the community to the culture and traditions of international scholars' home countries.
Animal Scientist, School of Veterinary Medicine
Universidad Complutense De Madrid
01.2016 - 06.2017
- Design and conduct in vivo research focused on the effects of prenatal maternal dietary supplementation during gestation on the reproductive traits of dams and the development of offspring.
- Train in and perform fatty acid extraction, gas chromatography, and other laboratory techniques.
- Supervise, train, and mentor junior researchers and laboratory technicians.
- Ensure compliance with institutional policies, procedures, and best practices regarding data protection and the care and use of animals.
- Assist in grant proposals for research projects and identify any deviations from established standards.
- Maintain a calendar for research projects. Plan and prepare for animal sample collection, meetings, and site inspections.
- Report research findings at various venues, such as international conferences and in scientific literature.
- Collaborate on the in vivo research project titled "Influence of Dietary Fats in Sows on Fatty Acid Composition in Colostrum, Milk, and Piglet Tissues."
English Language and Cultural Assistant
Madrid Department of Education
10.2009 - 06.2015
- Design and conduct engaging workshops focused on speaking skills and grammar in English as a second language (ESL) specifically tailored for primary school students, fostering their confidence and communication abilities.
- Provide comprehensive training and preparation sessions for students aiming to take the Cambridge and Trinity examinations, ensuring they are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.
- Plan and execute a series of cultural events and activities that immerse Spanish students in North American culture and traditions, helping them understand and celebrate various holidays and customs.
Veterinary Assistant
San Claudio Veterinary Hospital
07.2007 - 03.2009
- Processed new patients and updated client records with essential information using standardized registration systems and databases.
- Provided pre-surgical care for animals, administering anesthetics as necessary for their comfort and health.
- Positioned animals for diagnostic imaging, including X-rays and scans.
- Cleaned and disinfected examination areas, surgical equipment, and kennels to prevent disease and control odors.
- Executed various procedures such as urinalysis, fecal floats, blood draws, vaccinations, catheterization, preparation and application of drug therapies, chemical analysis, and digital radiography.
- Assisted in surgeries, euthanasia, and other procedures as needed.
- Responsible for veterinary dentistry and grooming care.
- Oversaw staff training and coordinated the ordering of all necessary supplies.
- Prepared surgical instrument packs and drapes for use in sterile environments by processing them in an autoclave.
- Administered injections, oral medications, and topically applied medications as prescribed by veterinarians.
- Observed animals for signs of distress or illness.
- Collected and processed samples for laboratory testing.
- Restrained animals for examinations and treatments.
Veterinary Assistant
Camarero Horse Racetrack Veterinary Clinic
11.2006 - 06.2007
- Conduct a variety of medical procedures, including performing urinalysis to assess the health of animals, drawing blood samples for laboratory analysis, and preparing and applying medications as needed for treatment.
- Carry out radiographic imaging to help diagnose and monitor conditions.
- Oversee veterinary dentistry procedures, including dental cleanings, extractions, and overall oral health assessments. Provide comprehensive care for wounds and injuries, ensuring the proper cleaning, treatment, and healing of affected areas.
Veterinary Assistant
Animal Medical Hospital of Cabo Rojo
01.2007 - 05.2007
- Perform a variety of clinical procedures, such as conducting urinalysis and fecal flotation tests, drawing blood samples, and administering vaccinations.
- Responsible for catheterization and the careful preparation and application of drug therapies.
- Conduct chemical analyses and ensure the proper sterilization of surgical materials.
- Utilize digital radiography to capture precise images for diagnostic purposes.
- Provide assistance during surgical procedures and euthanasia, offering support as needed.
- Oversee grooming care to maintain the well-being and hygiene of the patients.
Visiting Scholar, Dept. of Animal Science
Universidad De Salamanca
01.2006 - 07.2006
- Receive formal training in extensive livestock, herbaceous crops, and parasitology.
- Collaborate on a project studying parasitic zoonoses in the Caribbean region.
Research Assistant
University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez Campus
08.2005 - 12.2005
- Conduct in vivo research on the fermentation characteristics and consumption of silage made from hay treated with discarded milk, specifically in Puerto Rican native sheep and dairy cattle.
- Receive formal training in bioethics, and the care and use of animals in research, teaching, and testing, with a focus on compliance with AWA (Animal Welfare Act), OLAW (Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare), and the AAALAC (Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care) accreditation process.
- Handle animals responsibly, collect samples, and ensure proper sample preservation and analysis.
- Oversee the housing and husbandry conditions for research animals, and write and maintain internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Coordinate the ordering of study supplies.
- Report research findings at various venues, including national conferences and in scientific literature.
- Maintain a calendar for research projects, plan schedules, and prepare for animal sample collection, meetings, and site inspections.
- Provided support and guidance to junior lab staff.
Research Assistant
Research and Extension Services USDA
06.2005 - 07.2005
- Conduct procedures including urinalysis, fecal flotation, blood collections, vaccinations, and wound care.
- Manage the handling, milking, feeding, and nursing of dairy cattle, particularly newborn calves.
- Ensure adequate housing and husbandry practices for research animals and develop and maintain internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Oversee study activities to guarantee compliance with applicable local and federal regulations.
- Maintain an organized calendar for research projects, plan schedules, and prepare for animal sample collections and meetings.
Office Assistant
Dept of Animal Science, University of Puerto Rico
06.2004 - 07.2004
- Provide administrative, organizational, and clerical support.
- Assist the Department Director by drafting official documents, scheduling and planning meetings, preparing meeting agendas, setting appointments, and maintaining the department calendar.
- Translate official documents from Spanish to English.
- Prepare and edit departmental documents to ensure clear, accurate, and professional communication.
- Answer and manage incoming and outgoing calls while accurately recording messages for distribution to office staff.
Education
Ph.D. - Animal Sciences
Ohio State University/Universidad Veracruzana
Wooster, OH / Veracruz, Mexico07-2022
Master of Science - Animal Science
Universidad Veracruzana
Veracruz, Mexico07-2018
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science
University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez Campus
Mayaguez, Puerto Rico06-2007
Associate of Science - Pre-Veterinary Medicine
University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez Campus
Mayaguez, Puerto Rico06-2005
Skills
- IACUC/Office Administration
- Time management
- Animal care and husbandry
- Animal welfare
- Legal & regulatory awareness
- Technical Scientific writing
- Project management
- Bilingual (English/Spanish)
- AWA OLAW AAAALAC
accreditation process - Relationship building
- Conflict resolution & problem
solving - Diversity and inclusion
awareness
Timeline
IACUC Project Coordinator
Genentech-Charles River Laboratories
09.2023 - Current
Adjunct Professor-Online- Animal Science Dept.
Unity Environmental University
04.2023 - Current
Animal Scientist
Dept. of Animal Science, Ohio State University
03.2019 - 11.2022
Animal Scientist, School of Veterinary Medicine
Universidad Complutense De Madrid
01.2016 - 06.2017
English Language and Cultural Assistant
Madrid Department of Education
10.2009 - 06.2015
Veterinary Assistant
San Claudio Veterinary Hospital
07.2007 - 03.2009
Veterinary Assistant
Animal Medical Hospital of Cabo Rojo
01.2007 - 05.2007
Veterinary Assistant
Camarero Horse Racetrack Veterinary Clinic
11.2006 - 06.2007
Visiting Scholar, Dept. of Animal Science
Universidad De Salamanca
01.2006 - 07.2006
Research Assistant
University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez Campus
08.2005 - 12.2005
Research Assistant
Research and Extension Services USDA
06.2005 - 07.2005
Office Assistant
Dept of Animal Science, University of Puerto Rico
06.2004 - 07.2004
Ph.D. - Animal Sciences
Ohio State University/Universidad Veracruzana
Master of Science - Animal Science
Universidad Veracruzana
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science
University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez Campus
Associate of Science - Pre-Veterinary Medicine
University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez Campus
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