Research Associate

The Research Associate will lead the construction of recombinant plasmids for the assembly of multiple recombinant viruses and confirm protein expression using immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and flow cytometry. The individual will plaque-purify re...

  • 520988
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Diagnostic Medicne Pathobiolog
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Term)
  • Closing at: Feb 6 2026 - 23:55 CST
    • On-site
    View favorites

    About This Role

    The Research Associate will lead the construction of recombinant plasmids for the assembly of multiple recombinant viruses and confirm protein expression using immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and flow cytometry. The individual will plaque-purify recombinant viruses, apply IFA to identify lead subclones, and generate plaque-purified master seed stocks. Using these virus stocks, the Research Associate will scale up production, purify recombinant viruses, validate protein expression, and determine viral titers.
    In addition, responsibilities will include the generation, affinity purification, and quality control validation of recombinant proteins. The Research Associate will also contribute to animal immunization studies and conduct antibody- and cell-based immune assays to evaluate immune responses. He/she will assist in the design and execution of experiments, analyze and interpret data for publication. In addition, the person will be in charge of managing daily lab activities, supplies, biosafety compliance, and training personnel as needed.

    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:

    • Requires a master's degree and two years of relevant experience. Education beyond the minimum degree requirement may count toward required experience if deemed relevant by the hiring manager. The degree requirement ensures candidates possess advanced research skills, data analysis expertise and scientific writing ability in order to independently execute complex research tasks, interpret findings and contribute to scholarly publications. These competencies are typically developed and rigorously validated only through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential learning inherent in a formal degree program.

    Preferred Qualifications:

    • Masters in Biotechnology/Molecular biology/Cell biology/Virology/Vaccinology with 5 years’ experience.
    • PhD in Biotechnology/Molecular biology/Cell biology/Virology/Vaccinology with 2 years’ experience.
    • >5 yrs. experience in conducting research in the areas of Biotechnology/Molecular biology/Cellular immunology/Virology/Vaccinology.

    Sponsorship eligibility:

    Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

    Application Window

    Applications close on: February 6, 2026

    Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

    $65,000

    Why Join Us:

    Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

    Work Authorization: 

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

    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.

    Remote and Hybrid work options:

    Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

    Relocation to Kansas: 

    Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating you can visit the site apply online for the program incentives. 

    Background Screening Statement:

    Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

    Interview Preferences:

    Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

    The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

    *Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

    To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.