Diagnostic Associate I

Position Title:

Diagnostic Associate I

Job Group:
Professional & Scientific

Bachelor’s degree

Help protect animal and public health by providing accurate, timely diagnostic testing in a fast-paced laboratory environment. As a Diagnostic Associate I, you will culture animal tissues and other specimens, identify bacterial pathogens, perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and accurately document results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). You will collaborate with colleagues on diagnostic investigations and research projects while helping maintain laboratory quality, efficiency, and safety.

This position works directly with animal tissues, fluids, fecal material, and infectious organisms, including pathogens that may be harmful to humans. The role requires strict adherence to biosafety protocols, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to maintain accurate records while working in a laboratory environment.

Experience working in a microbiology, bacteriology, veterinary diagnostic, clinical, or research laboratory. Experience performing aseptic techniques, bacterial culture, pathogen identification, or antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or other electronic laboratory data management software. Experience following biosafety, quality assurance, or laboratory standard operating procedures in a regulated environment.

The Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (ISU VDL) is a nationally recognized leader in veterinary diagnostics, providing critical testing, consultation, education, and outreach services to support animal health, public health, and agricultural industries. As one of the largest veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the country, the ISU VDL partners with veterinarians, producers, researchers, government agencies, and industry professionals to deliver accurate and timely diagnostic information.

Through innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to service, the ISU VDL advances animal health and supports Iowa’s agricultural community and beyond.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work‑life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long‑term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment, or call  or Toll Free:

Appointment Type:
Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year: 12

Month Work Period Time Type:
Full time

Pay Grade: PS806

Original Posting Date:
July 27, 2026

Posting Close Date:
August 10, 2026

Job Requisition Number: R19669

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. , email eooffice.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications. Current employees (excluding temporary, student and graduate assistants) must apply through the Workday Internal Careers Hub.

By focusing on the future and providing the best student experience possible, Iowa State University attracts students and faculty who want to make a difference. With a comprehensive land‑grant mission of education, research, extension and…