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Job Title: Cadaver Lab Assistant                                  Department: Physician Assistant

Division: School of Health and Natural Science           Exempt/Non-Exempt Status: Non-Exempt

Position Number: TA4533                                           E-Class: Temporary Seasonal Worker: 16

Reports To: Program Director                                   Salary Grade: S1

Effective Date: 5/1/25                                               

Job Summary:

A Cadaver Anatomy Lab assistant is primarily responsible for assisting with the preparation, maintenance, and handling of cadavers used in anatomical dissection, ensuring a safe and organized learning environment for students while providing support to the anatomy instructor, including tasks including cadaver preparation, dissection guidance, lab maintenance, safety oversight, and administrative duties; all while adhering to strict ethical and biohazard protocols.

Essential Job Functions & Responsibilities:

Every effort has been made to identify the essential functions of this position. It in no way states or implies that the responsibilities listed are the only duties required to perform in this position. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position responsibilities if the work is similar, related, or is an essential function of the position.

• Cadaver Preparation:

• Receive and properly store cadavers according to protocols. 
• Perform initial dissection to expose key anatomical structures. 
• Maintain the condition of cadavers by injecting preservative fluids and monitoring for signs of deterioration. 
• Prepare specific anatomical regions for student dissection based on the curriculum. 
• For labs in which students don’t dissect, complete full regional cadaver prosections as required by the instructor for the week’s labs.

• Student Support:

• Assist students with dissection techniques and identify anatomical landmarks. 
• Provide guidance and answer questions during dissection sessions. 
• Monitor student progress and ensure proper handling of anatomical specimens. 
• Hold open labs at convenient times for student cohorts

• Laboratory Maintenance:

• Clean and disinfect dissection tools and lab surfaces after each use. 
• Maintain proper storage of anatomical supplies and equipment. 
• Monitor and manage hazardous waste disposal related to the lab 
• Ensure the lab adheres to safety regulations and biohazard protocols. 
• Maintaining the cadaver lab's inventory worksheet
• Track the quantity of each item in stock, identify when to reorder, and manage the process of placing new orders with suppliers
• Supplies and equipment must be in prior to semester start

Administrative Tasks:

• Assist with scheduling student lab sessions and assigning cadaver groups. 
• Maintain accurate records of cadaver usage and relevant documentation. 
• Coordinate with the anatomy instructor to procure necessary supplies and materials. 

Required Skills & Experience:

• Strong anatomical knowledge:
  • A comprehensive understanding of human anatomy is essential for guiding students during dissection.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in dissection techniques and proper handling of anatomical tools.
• Attention to Detail:
  • Precise work is crucial when preparing cadavers and maintaining the lab environment.
• Communication Skills:
  • Effective communication to explain anatomical structures and address student concerns.
• Professionalism and Ethics:
  • Respectful handling of cadavers and adherence to ethical guidelines regarding donor privacy

Education Requirements:

• Applicants are required to have already graduated with a Masters in a Biomedical Sciences program or higher, or hold a D.Sc., D.P. T., O.T.D., D.P.M., D.C., D.O., M.D., Ph.D., or other degrees with an interest in teaching human anatomy.

Preferred Educational Requirements:

• Applicants are preferred to have completed a certificate program in human anatomy instruction, to teach gross anatomy in colleges, universities, and medical school

Physical/Other Requirements:

• Must be able to push, pull, move or lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to meet all general health requirements for the position as per university policies