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 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.

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.

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.

Applications close on: February 6, 2026

$65,000