Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What role does a laboratory animal technician primarily perform?

1. Coordinates scientific research efforts

2. Oversees financial expenditures of the lab

3. Performs many animal care functions and monitors environmental factors

4. Develops new research protocols

The correct answer is: Performs many animal care functions and monitors environmental factors

The primary role of a laboratory animal technician focuses on the care and welfare of laboratory animals, which includes performing various animal care functions and closely monitoring the environmental factors that affect these animals. This involves daily tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and providing health assessments of the animals, ensuring they are maintained in a suitable environment that promotes their well-being. Monitoring environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light cycles is crucial, as these elements can significantly impact the health and behavior of laboratory animals, thereby affecting the outcomes of scientific research. In contrast, the coordination of scientific research efforts or development of new research protocols is typically managed by researchers and scientists rather than animal technicians. Financial oversight of laboratory expenditures falls outside the technician's role, which is primarily centered around animal care and husbandry. Thus, the technician's responsibilities lie squarely in maintaining the animals' health and welfare, supporting the overarching goals of the research while ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory standards.