Research Assistant

About This Role

The purpose of this position is to support research activities in the laboratory under Objective 3 of a USDA-APHIS New World Screwworm Grand Challenge project. The Research Assistant will maintain insect colonies and cultures, perform molecular assays (DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, and library preparation), process and document samples, manage laboratory supplies, and help train and support students.

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 bachelor's degree. Education beyond the minimum degree requirement may count toward required experience if deemed relevant by the hiring manager. The degree requirement ensures candidates possess the advanced theoretical knowledge, highly specialized methodologies, and critical problem-solving skills fundamental to this work. These competencies are typically developed and rigorously validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential experience inherent in a formal degree program.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Bachelor's degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, entomology, or closely related fields

* One year of research laboratory experience.

* Master's degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, or closely related fields

* Prior experience with molecular techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, library preparation)

* Experience with microbial culture or insect rearing

* Familiarity with sequencing or basic data analysis

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills

* Strong organizational 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 21, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$39,227 - $66,667

You may also be interested in

Accountant II

Manhattan AQ Miller Schl of Media & Comm

Client Services Assistant - Triage Call Center

Manhattan Veterinary Health Center

Fellow (Post Doc)

Manhattan Diagnostic Medicne Pathobiolog

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…