Heather Applegate-Jacobson, laboratory animal technician for the Program for Laboratory Animal Resources (PLAR) at WSU Spokane, has received the 2024 Technician of the Year award from the Northern Rocky Mountain AALAS branch. The award recognizes an individual for their accomplishment and contribution to the promotion of laboratory animal care.
Applegate-Jacobson was presented an engraved plaque and $350 during the WSU Technician Appreciation Luncheon on August 14 at WSU Spokane.
“From the moment Heather joined our team, she has consistently demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism and expertise,” said Nina Woodford, director and attending veterinarian of the Office of the Campus Veterinarian. “Her comprehensive knowledge of animal care, combined with her meticulous attention to detail, ensures that every animal under her care receives the highest standard of care.”
She joined WSU in 2019 and serves as a lead animal technician at PLAR. She recently received her Laboratory Animal Technician AALAS certification.
“Heather shows initiative to improve knowledge in laboratory animal husbandry and animal biology by asking questions about health cases, studying, and applying for her LAT certification and inquiring about experimental objections,” stated by one of her fellow colleagues nominating her for the award. “This allows her to care for the animals in her rooms, as well as support researchers’ goals. Overall, Heather demonstrated outstanding performance as a lab animal technician through her communication, job efficiency and performance, and teamwork.”
The Northern Rocky Mountain AALAS Branch encompasses research academic institutions and biomedical companies in Montana, Idaho, and Washington. The branch serves its members with information, networking and learning opportunities within the field of animal science.