Research Associate, Research Scientist

About This Role

The purpose of this position is to lead microbiome and chemical-ecology research under Objective 3 of a USDA-APHIS New World Screwworm Grand Challenge project. The Research Associate will design and execute metagenomic, VOC/GC-MS, electroantennography, and SIT-optimization experiments, analyze the resulting data, develop SOPs, and train and oversee laboratory staff.

Worksite Description

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.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

* Requires a master's degree and two years of relevant experience. Education beyond the minimum degree requirement may count toward required experience if deemed relevant by the hiring manager. The degree requirement ensures candidates possess advanced research skills, data analysis expertise and scientific writing ability in order to independently execute complex research tasks, interpret findings and contribute to scholarly publications. These competencies are typically developed and rigorously validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential learning inherent in a formal degree program.

Preferred Qualifications:

* PhD in microbiology, molecular biology, entomology, microbiome science, or a closely related field

* Two years of relevant research laboratory experience.

* Experience with next-generation sequencing library preparation and microbiome analysis (QIIME2/DADA2, Kraken2)

* Experience with GC-MS, electroantennography (EAG), or insect behavioral bioassays

* Experience rearing insects or maintaining microbial cultures

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills

* Strong organizational, record-keeping, and communication skills

* Familiarity with bioinformatic analysis

Additional Role Information:

* Ability to work in a BSL-2 laboratory environment

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Application Window

Applications close on:
August 10, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$50,000 - $62,000

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Why Join Us:

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.

Work Authorization and Sponsorship:

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

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.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

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.

Relocation to Kansas:

Kansas participates in the Make My Move  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.

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State's background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

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…