About This Role:

The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (KSVDL) within the College of Veterinary Medicine is seeking applicants for a Research Assistant. This position has the responsibility of developing and performing laboratory experiments to develop a real time RT-PCR for various bovine and porcine pathogens. To achieve the objectives, job responsibilities include; handling and processing various animal specimens, nucleic acid extraction of both RNA and DNA using high-throughput magnetic bead extraction methods and other nucleic acid extraction methods, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of a variety of animal pathogens, viral expansion in cell culture, bacterial isolation and identification, and conducting scientific literature searches.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Bench work:
  • Assist with laboratory bench work needed for test improvement and development. This involves the completion of complex, multi-step laboratory procedures including; nucleic acid extraction and purification of both RNA and DNA from animal specimens, using both magnetic bead nucleic acid and spin column chemistry, and TaqMan qPCR for the detection of various pathogens, animal cell culture, and viral and bacterial expansion and isolation. The position’s primary focus is on wet bench aspects of Next Generation Sequencing on the Illumina and Ion Torrent. Experience with Next Generation Sequencing is preferred, but no required.
• Preparation and Analysis:
  • Review of primary and secondary literature is required to formulate accurate and precise experimental designs and proposals. This not only includes material directly related to the experimentation, but all related biological (human and veterinary), physical, mathematical, statistical and ethical fields to better prepare for sequencing runs and/or analyze sequencing data. Validating sequencing protocols may be required as well as downstream analysis such as bioinformatics analysis and generating sequencing reports.
• Lab Maintenance:
  • Maintain laboratory environment, which includes; taking inventory of supplies, attending educational meetings, training and assisting undergraduate students.

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays. To see what benefits are available, please visit:  https://www.k-state.edu/hcs/benefits

We Support Diversity and Inclusion:

Kansas State University embraces diversity and inclusion.  The university actively seeks individuals who foster a collegial environment and cooperative interactions with coworkers, students, and others.  The University is dedicated to promoting the Principles of Community.

What You’ll Need to Succeed:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge and experience with PCR

Other Requirements:

• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment

How to Apply:

Please submit the following documents:

1. Resume
2. Cover letter
3. Contact information for three professional references

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening begins immediately and continues until the position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

$18.13 - $30.80/hour

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Background Screening Statement:

In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee.