Post Doctoral Scholar - Veterinary Science

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 47,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Kentucky in Lexington, KY invites applications for a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar/Research Associate to lead interdisciplinary projects focused on antimicrobial drug discovery, target validation, functional genomics, and host immune responses to multidrug-resistant pathogens.

This fully funded position supports work on novel therapeutics and mechanistic studies within a One Health framework, with opportunities to publish in high-impact journals and collaborate across

Qualifications

• Ph.D. with strong background in microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, microbial pathogenesis, host–microbiota–pathogen interactions, microbial genetics, or related disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage independent and collaborative research projects.
• Conduct microbiological, molecular, and genomic analyses related to antimicrobial resistance and therapeutic development.
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and maintain organized research databases.
• Troubleshoot experimental systems and optimize assays.
• Prepare manuscripts, reports, and contribute to grant proposals.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees.
• Maintain compliance with university, biosafety, and regulatory standards.

Education

Ph.D. in microbiology/immunology/biochemistry/molecular and cellular biology or related disciplines

Job description

Post Doctoral Scholar - Veterinary Science

Job Title Post Doctoral Scholar - Veterinary Science

Requisition Number

Requisition Number DU12832

Department Name

Department Name 81140:Veterinary Science

Work Location

Work Location Lexington, KY

Salary Range

Salary Range 47,476 - 60,000 comensurate with experience

Type of Position

Type of Position Temporary

Position Time Status

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education

Ph.D. with a strong background in microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, microbial pathogenesis, host–microbiota–pathogen interactions, microbial genetics, or related disciplines. Candidates with experience in bioinformatics and omics data analysis are encouraged to apply.

Required Related Experience

The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong first-author publication record in peer-reviewed journals and possess experience in antimicrobial drug development and molecular target identification. Applicants should have hands‑on expertise in one or more of the following disciplines: bacterial genetics, molecular cloning, gene editing approaches, host–pathogen interaction models, immunological assays (including cytokine analysis, flow cytometry, ELISA , Western blotting, and immune signaling analysis), and/or omics‑based methodologies (such as transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, or comparative genomics). Candidates must also demonstrate strong analytical, quantitative, and problem‑solving skills.

Required License/Registration/Certification

N/A

Physical Requirements

Work in the laboratory may require long periods of standing or sitting.

Shift

Monday to Friday 8 am to 5 pm (40 hrs/week), plus evenings & weekends as needed.

Job Summary

We invite applications for a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar/Research Associate to lead interdisciplinary research projects focused on antimicrobial drug discovery, drug target identification and validation, functional genomics, and host immune responses to multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens within a One Health framework. This fully funded position supports projects aimed at developing novel therapeutic strategies, identifying and validating drug targets, and elucidating molecular mechanisms underlying bacterial pathogenesis and antimicrobial resistance. The successful candidate will be a self-motivated, innovative scientist capable of working independently while contributing effectively to a highly collaborative research team.

Required Documents

• A cover letter specifically addressing experience and qualifications,
• Research Statement: description of current research and goals for future research/career
• Transcripts
• Contact information for three references.

• Design, implement, and manage independent and collaborative research projects.
• Conduct microbiological, molecular, and genomic analyses related to antimicrobial resistance and therapeutic development.
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets and maintain organized research databases.
• Troubleshoot experimental systems and optimize assays.
• Prepare manuscripts, reports, and contribute to grant proposals.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees.
• Maintain compliance with university, biosafety, and regulatory standards.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

Preferred Education/Experience

Demonstrated enthusiasm for research, excellent written and verbal communication skills, professionalism, strong interpersonal and teamwork abilities, a solid academic record, and a commitment to scientific rigor.

Deadline to Apply

Deadline to Apply 04/30/2026

Our University Community

We value the well‑being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre‑employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).