Research Associate

This role focuses on the intersection of veterinary entomology and molecular virology, specifically investigating the role of mechanical or biological insect vectors in the transmission of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1. This purpos...

  • 521846
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Diagnostic Medicne Pathobiolog
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Term)
  • Closing at: Aug 1 2026 - 23:55 CDT
  • On-site
View favorites

About This Role

This role focuses on the intersection of veterinary entomology and molecular virology, specifically investigating the role of mechanical or biological insect vectors in the transmission of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1. This purpose of this position is to conduct experiments on the role of insects in transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus. Ideal candidates are recent Ph.D. graduates with a background in vector biology, entomology, and/or virology and excellent research capabilities. The successful candidate will develop and conduct research experiments and disseminate findings through publications. This position offers opportunities for contribution to significant research projects and collaboration with the US Department of Agriculture.

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, including handling and designing experiments with insects and/or viruses; data analysis; and scientific writing. 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:

  • Ph.D. in biology, microbiology, virology, animal heath, or a related field.
  • Early career scientist with strong publication record
  • Advanced molecular biology, entomology, virology, and tissue culture skills
  • Hold a valid driver’s license
  • Be able to work independently and as part of a team
  • Effective written and oral communication skills
  • Molecular Techniques: Proficiency in qRT-PCR, RNA extraction, and genomic data interpretation.
  • Entomology: Experience in insect morphology, identification, and the handling of live insect colonies.
  • Biosafety: Ability to work strictly within BSL-2 and BSL-3 (as required) safety frameworks, especially when handling zoonotic pathogens.
  • Field Work: Flexibility to travel to agricultural sites and work in varied outdoor environments.

Sponsorship eligibility:

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

Application Window

Applications close on: August 1, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$49,925 - $87,169

 

 

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 and Sponsorship: 

Employees must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. International candidates who require employer-sponsored work authorization are welcome to apply. Eligibility for visa sponsorship depends on several factors, including but not limited to, the job’s occupational requirements, specific duties, wage level, the candidate’s qualifications (such as degree field) and available departmental resources. As a result, not all positions or applicants will be eligible for sponsorship.

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 from outside of Kansas you can visit the site to 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.