- Veterinary Diagnostic Lab
- Academic / Faculty - 12 month
- Closing at: Aug 31 2026 - 23:55 CDT
The Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (KSVDL) Rabies Laboratory is an internationally recognized leader in rabies serology and provides critical laboratory services that support animal and public health across the United States and around the world. As one of the highest-volume rabies serology laboratories worldwide, the Rabies Laboratory serves state and federal agencies, veterinarians, physicians, public health officials, researchers, zoos, wildlife agencies and the biopharmaceutical industry by delivering timely, accurate testing for rabies diagnosis and immunity assessment. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a globally recognized laboratory dedicated to advancing rabies prevention, surveillance and One Health initiatives. The Research Assistant Professor will support the advancement of serological and molecular diagnostic services, applied research and assay development for rabies diagnostics. The successful candidate will assist with the development, verification and validation of new innovative diagnostic methodologies and the implementation of research projects that address emerging challenges in rabies and improve the accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of rabies testing to strengthen laboratory capacity and disease surveillance. Working within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment, the successful candidate will contribute to maintaining the laboratory's reputation for scientific excellence while ensuring compliance with quality management systems, biosafety standards and accreditation requirements, including those established by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD), Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), and other applicable regulatory agencies. The position will support rapid response to rabies investigations and advancement of the laboratory's mission through innovation and collaborative research. This position provides outstanding opportunities to contribute to an applied research program focused on rabies and other zoonotic diseases while leveraging the strong national and international partnerships of the KSVDL Rabies Laboratory. The successful candidate will assist the Section Head with sourcing extramural funding and disseminating research findings through peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations. As a member of a laboratory providing essential diagnostic services, flexibility may occasionally be required to support emerging disease investigations, public health emergencies, research priorities and evolving laboratory needs.
This position is On-site.
All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.
Minimum Qualifications:
- PhD degree in the field of immunology, virology or molecular biology.
- At least two years of experience working in a diagnostic or research laboratory.
The degree requirement is necessary for accreditation purposes and to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Degree in Veterinary and/or Animal Science
- Cross-cutting skills in immunology, virology and molecular biology.
- Strong hands-on experience with virus neutralizing assays, cell culture and molecular techniques.
- High level of precision in conducting experiments and maintaining laboratory records.
- Strong analytical skills with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation.
- Ability to instruct others in complex technical procedures.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
Additional Role Information:
- Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance, including occasional schedule flexibility to support diagnostic testing priorities, case investigations and laboratory workload demands.
Sponsorship eligibility:
This position is eligible for sponsorship
Applications close on: 8/31/2026
Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.
Employees must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. International candidates who require employer-sponsored work authorization are welcome to apply. Eligibility for visa sponsorship depends on several factors, including but not limited to, the job’s occupational requirements, specific duties, wage level, the candidate’s qualifications (such as degree field) and available departmental resources. As a result, not all positions or applicants will be eligible for sponsorship.
Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.
Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements. An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.
Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating from outside of Kansas you can visit the site to apply online for the program incentives.
Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.
Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.
The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.
- Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.
To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.
