Research Assistant Professor

Kansas State University; Manhattan (KS); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Kansas State University is seeking a Research Assistant Professor to advance serological and molecular diagnostics for rabies. The role supports assay development, verification, and implementation of innovative methods within KSVDL Rabies Laboratory.

The candidate will work in a collaborative setting, contributing to publications, grant activities, and regulatory compliance, while supporting rapid response to investigations and surveillance.

Qualifications

• This role requires a PhD in immunology, virology or molecular biology.
• Minimum of two years in a diagnostic or research laboratory.
• Degree is necessary for accreditation purposes and to ensure specialized knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Support development and validation of rabies serology and molecular diagnostics.
• Assist with research projects addressing challenges in rabies testing.
• Contribute to quality management, biosafety, and accreditation compliance.

Skills

Immunology

Virology

Molecular biology

Laboratory techniques

Education

PhD in immunology/virology/molecular biology

Tools

Virus neutralizing assays

Cell culture

Molecular techniques

Job description

Research Assistant Professor

Kansas State University

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.

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

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.*

Preferred Qualifications

• 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 kills 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.

Additional Role Information

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

Sponsorship Eligibility

This position is eligible for sponsorship.

Application Window

Applications close on: 8/31/2026