Research Associate

The Inner Pup

Job Description

Research Associate – Heartworm Treatment Study
New Orleans, LA
Full-time Contract (31 months: July 1, 2025 – January 31, 2028)
$50,000–$60,000/year + benefits

The Inner Pup -- in collaboration with its research partners at University of Florida and Toronto Humane Society -- is seeking a full-time Research Associate for a groundbreaking community-based heartworm treatment study. This prospective study will evaluate the efficacy of a novel approach to treating heartworm disease. This lower cost, simpler approach to treatment has the potential to expand access to heartworm treatment significantly.

This Research Associate role is ideal for a compassionate, organized, and persistent professional with veterinary technical training and a strong commitment to animal welfare and community health.

Key Responsibilities:
--Enroll participants and manage virtual and in-person follow-ups
--Perform and coordinate heartworm testing, medication administration, and client incentives
--Maintain electronic and paper records and manage supply inventory
--Travel to client homes and community sites across New Orleans (occasional trips to Baton Rouge possible)
--Support participant retention by building relationships and overcoming barriers to compliance
--Coordinate team meetings, agendas, and minutes
--Maintain communication with clients and study team

Qualifications:
--Experience in animal welfare (sheltering, outreach clinics, rescues)
--Strong technical skills - animal handling, blood draws, sample processing
--Project management experience
--Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT, LVT, or CVT) credentials preferred but not required
--Involvement in research or social service programs (human or animal-focused) preferred

Key Skills:
--Client Communication: Persistent and empathetic follow-up across channels (text, email, phone, in-person)
--Animal Handling: Skilled, low-stress handling of large dogs; venipuncture experience
--Technology: Proficient in Google Sheets, Excel, Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Teams
--Organization: Detail-oriented with excellent time management, independence, and teamwork

Requirements:
--Must have valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
--Must be comfortable conducting in-home visits if necessary
--Up to 25% remote work allowed with supervisor approval

Why Join Us?
You’ll be part of a passionate, multi-city team working to improve heartworm treatment access. This is a unique opportunity to combine clinical skills, research, and public service in a highly collaborative environment.

This is a full time job