05/08/1997 15160

DIRECTOR, PA EQUINE TOXICOLOGY & RESEARCH LABORATORY

DEFINITION: This is professional, research and administrative work directing the statewide equine and human toxicology program in the Department of Agriculture.

The employee in this class is responsible for organizing, directing, and supervising a comprehensive post drug testing program and for declaring positive test results on equine and human samples. Work involves establishing, directing, and supervising a toxicological program for the PA Racing Commissions in the disposition of drugs in horses to determine pharmacological and toxicological effects. Work involves providing scientific information to the PA Racing Commissions on all drug-related matters. The employee must demonstrate the scientific value of research conducted by publishing the results in scientific journals. Supervision and administrative direction are exercised over Chemists, Clerical Staff, Engineering, Scientific and Technical Interns and Quality Assurance/Quality Control Officer. The director is responsible for meeting and maintaining accreditation standards to keep the laboratory accredited by the National Accreditation Body. Duties include coordinating toxicological program and research with the New Bolton Center of the University of Pennsylvania. The director is the principal scientific advisor to the Executive Deputy Secretary and the PA Racing Commissions on substantive program policy changes of drugs in the equine and humans, The director is responsible for the implementation of the policies, procedures designed to meet national and international acceptable
standards for drug testing and confirmation procedures. Work is performed with independence under the general direction of the Executive Deputy Secretary for adherence to law and agency. goals and objectives.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Plans, organizes, directs, coordinates, and implements statewide Equine Toxicology & Research Laboratory Programs.

Directs the implementation of policies and procedures designed to insure efficient operations; recommending new programs and research.

Directs the development, implementation and maintenance of new methods and procedures consistent with laboratory accreditation certification program requirements.

Consults with national and international equine drug centers on unusual drug problems in the evaluation and interpretation of laboratory tests and results.

Plans and coordinates proposals for drug research related to the equine industry.

Reviews and advises the Executive Deputy Secretary and the Racing Commissions on matters affecting the racing program.

Reviews the work of subordinates, approves and disapproves leave, completes, reviews and signs employee performance evaluation reports.

Recommends the purchase of state of the art equipment and laboratory supplies through allocation of funds through review of the Bureau budget.

Develops research grant proposals and plans and coordinates research projects related to equine toxicology with the New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania and educational institutions.

Plans and supervises the testing and confirmation of split samples from other racing jurisdictions.

Responsible for planning, coordinating and maintaining accreditation of the PA Equine Testing and Research Laboratory by the National Accreditation Body.

Employees in this class may participate in the performance of their subordinates work consistent with operational or organizational requirements.

Performs other related duties, as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles, practices, problems, approach to solutions and current development in toxicology, pharmacology, laboratory technology and management, laboratory information management services, analytical biochemistry, physiology, and chemistry as each relates to the effective operation of a toxicology and research laboratory.

Knowledge of modem chemical laboratory methods, equipment, and supplies.

Knowledge of the pharmacology of drugs.

Knowledge of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynaniics, and pharmacology of drugs in both the equine and human subjects.

Knowledge of equine toxicology.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of effective program administration and personnel supervision.

Knowledge of the uses and application and care of sensitive laboratory equipment used in a large toxicology laboratory.

Knowledge of the working of government in meeting its goals and services to the people.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to plan, organize, and direct the operation of a research and testing laboratory.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, associates, public and private organizations and the general public.

Ability to develop, integrate, and implement Bureau administrative procedures, and policies consistent with Department programs and priorities.

Ability to serve as a professional expert witness at administrative and judicial hearings.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: An Doctoral Degree in pharmacology, biochemistry, physiology, chemistry, toxicological or related field and five (5) years of experience in pharmacological and/or chemical analysis including two (2) years in a supervisory capacity in a laboratory.