Research Assistant Professor

About This Role

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance, including occasional schedule flexibility to support diagnostic testing priorities, case investigations and laboratory workload demands.

This position is eligible for sponsorship

Applications close on: 8/31/2026