Research Assistant Professor
Kansas State University – Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (KSVDL) Rabies Laboratory
About the role
The KSVDL Rabies Laboratory is an internationally recognized leader in rabies serology, providing critical laboratory services that support animal and public health across the United States and globally. As one of the highest-volume rabies serology laboratories worldwide, it 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. Responsibilities include developing, verifying, and validating new diagnostic methodologies and implementing research projects to address emerging challenges in rabies, improving testing accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity to strengthen laboratory capacity and disease surveillance.
The successful candidate will work within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment, maintaining the laboratory’s reputation for scientific excellence while ensuring compliance with quality management systems, biosafety standards, and accreditation requirements (e.g., AAVLD, CLIA, and other regulatory agencies). The role supports rapid response to rabies investigations and advances the laboratory’s mission through innovation and collaborative research. It also provides opportunities to contribute to an applied research program focused on rabies and other zoonotic diseases, leveraging the KSVDL Rabies Laboratory’s strong national and international partnerships.
The successful candidate will assist the Section Head with sourcing extramural funding and disseminating research findings through peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations. Flexibility may occasionally be required to support emerging disease investigations, public health emergencies, research priorities, and evolving laboratory needs.
Worksite
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.
Requirements
- PhD degree in immunology, virology, or molecular biology.
- At least two years of experience working in a diagnostic or research laboratory.
- Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance, including occasional schedule flexibility to support diagnostic testing priorities, case investigations, and laboratory workload demands.
The degree requirement is necessary for accreditation purposes and to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities 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 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.
Additional Information
This position is eligible for sponsorship.