Animal Caretaker in Biocontainment Training Program
The Global Health Research Complex (GHRC) at Texas A&M University will be hosting the Animal Caretaker in Biocontainment Training Program for summer 2026. This program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture—Agricultural Research Service (USDA ARS), is designed to build technical skills and knowledge needed to work with animals in a biocontainment research facility. This program targets students interested in learning about careers working with animals within the biocontainment research field and will provide introductory training through lectures and hands-on experiences in:
- Animal husbandry and management in biocontainment environments
- Role of animal research in supporting health and agriculture
- Fundamentals of biosafety and biosecurity principles
- Selection and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Learning and applying common procedures in a large animal biocontainment research setting
Overview: Summer training — four weeks total
- June 1 – June 26, 2026 Short-course at the Texas A&M GHRC in College Station, Texas.
- A training field trip to Galveston National Laboratory and University of Texas – Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas is included (transportation and lodging provided)
Qualifications
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be at least 18 years old when program starts (June 1, 2026).
- Applicants will be required to pass a background check.
Requirements
- Must be available to attend the entire training program in-person during June 2026 in College Station, Texas.
- Exhibit a strong interest in working with animals, specifically livestock species.
- Ability to perform physical activities related to caring for livestock species, including sweeping, shoveling, lifting bags of feed, etc.
- Submit a completed Animal Caretaker Training Program application form (PDF) as well as a letter of interest describing why you are interested in this program, experiences you would like to obtain and how they might support your career goals.
Benefits
- Stipend ($2,000)
- Dorm-style housing will be provided during the training program for those who need accommodations.
- Pre-loaded meal card for use at campus dining locations
Application and selection process
Completed applications should be submitted via email to: actp@tamu.edu.
Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. CST on Jan 16, 2026.
The search committee will select up to five candidates for the 2026 Animal Caretaker Training Program. Selected applicants will be notified by email in February 2026.
Contact Information
Email: actp@tamu.edu
Phone: 979-458-5581