Fellow (Post Doc)

Kansas State University; Manhattan (KS); On-site; USD 39,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Kansas State University is seeking a Post-Doctoral researcher to work on vaccines and diagnostics targeting high-consequence animal diseases. The role involves independent research in BSL-2/BSL-3 settings, planning experiments, and mentoring students within a dynamic team.

The successful candidate will conduct molecular virology studies, write manuscripts, and contribute to procedural development while coordinating with the Research Science Manager and Principal Investigator.

Qualifications

• Minimum of DVM or PhD in science related field.
• Candidates should have >5 yrs molecular lab experience and related techniques.
• Experience with animals and biocontainment (BSL-2/BSL-3) is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct experiments under BSL-2/BSL-3 containment.
• Write and edit manuscripts and articles.
• Establish procedures and techniques for research.
• Provide educational guidance to students.

Skills

Molecular lab experience

PCR/RT-PCR

Cell culture techniques

Immunoassays

Virological assays

Education

DVM or PhD in science related field

Tools

Western blotting

Affinity purification

Virus isolation/purification

DOJ Select Agent handling

Job description

About This Role

Post-Doctoral position for independent research including but not limited to viruses such as Influenza, African swine fever, Vesicular Stomatitus, Rift Valley Fever, Monkey Pox and other select agents under both BSL-2 and BSL-3 bio-containment conditions. Duties would include planning and conducting experiments; writing and editing manuscripts/articles; establishing procedures and techniques; and provide educational guidance to students. This position is part of a very busy, successful research team whose main goal is to develop rationally designed vaccines and diagnostics against high-consequence foreign animal, emerging and zoonotic disease threats. The position requires the individual to display critical thinking and independent judgement as it relates to ongoing and new molecular, viral research with direct guidance from the Research Science Manager and Primary Investigator. The research is conducted at the BSL2 and BSL3 level of containment and utilizes several select target animal models such as pigs, cows, chickens and mice. The position requires the acquisition and maintenance of a DOJ Select Agent clearance.

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:

• Minimum of DVM or PhD in science related field. The degree requirement is necessary 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:

• >5 yrs. Molecular laboratory experience – PCR, RT-PCR, cloning, cell culture techniques, western blotting, affinity purification of recombinant proteins using eukaryotic/prokaryotic cells or cell-free systems, conducting safety and immunogenicity studies, immunological assays, virological assays, poster presentations and/or presentation at local, university or national meetings. Ability to work with animals in the BSL2 and BSL3 level of biocontainment.

Additional Role Information:

• Experience working or conducting studies with animals – rodents, food animals, and/or companion animals. Molecular or virological laboratory experience - virus isolation, virus purification, virus titration, western blotting, affinity purification of recombinant proteins using eukaryotic/prokaryotic cells or cell-free systems, conducting safety.

Sponsorship eligibility:

This position is eligible for sponsorship.

Application Window

Applications close on: November 9, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$39,227 - $66,667 annually