Texas A&M University
Classification Specifications

General Description:  Supervises the technical and administrative activities associated with the preparation and disposal of cadaver and animal materials; maintains departmental necropsy or gross anatomy laboratories, and maintains departmental equipment associated with the gross anatomy and ancillary laboratories.

Typical:  Oversees the care and operation of teaching laboratories; purchases and maintains inventory supplies and equipment; supervises Laboratory Attendants and Student Workers; prepares specimens and anatomical teaching laboratories for medical or veterinary students; maintains accurate records regarding the receipt, issuance, and disposal of cadavers; embalms, prepares and stores all cadaver material; assigns specimens and cadavers to students; makes arrangements with the medical or veterinary community for special dissections; arranges and conducts tours of laboratory facilities; performs general maintenance of gross dissection laboratory, skeletons and anatomical models; cares for cadaver material in student tanks or cold rooms; makes final disposition of bodies; receives animal carcasses; disposes of animal tissue by incineration; may operate and maintain biological waste incinerators; performs related duties as required.

Received:  General instruction and periodic review from administrative supervisor.

Given:  Detailed instruction to Laboratory Attendants and Student Workers.

Required:  High school graduation or any equivalent combination of training and experience. Two years in related laboratory work; knowledge of mortuary science principles and practices.

Preferred:  Some college or advanced technical training. Two years experience in an anatomy department of a medical or veterinary school.

Required:  None.

Preferred:  Licensed Mortician.

Typical:  Use of perfusing machine, hoist, storage rack/tank, electric power tools, embalming and aspiration machines and chemical substances including formaldehyde and phenol.

Typical:  None.