Molecular Biologist

Assistant/Associate Professor of Molecular DiagnosticsJob Title - Assistant/Associate Professor of Molecular DiagnosticsWorking Title - Molecular BiologistDepartment Name - Veterinary Diagnostic LaboratoryWork Location - Lexington, KYType of Position - FacultyPosition Time Status - Full-TimeTenure Track Status - Tenure TrackRequired Education - Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent or a PhD degree in molecular biology (or related field)Required Related Experience - Demonstrated ability as a productive scientist in areas relevant to veterinary molecular diagnostics as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications or scientific presentations. Experience in a diagnostic molecular laboratory. Experience in next-generation sequencing data analysis. Possession of excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills and the ability to work with others in a collegial team atmosphere.Required License/Registration/Certification - N/AJob Summary - The University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (UKVDL), Department of Veterinary Science, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (MGCAFE) at the University of Kentucky invites applications for a faculty position focused on molecular diagnostics. This is a tenure-eligible faculty position in the Department of Veterinary Science, with a 12-month faculty appointment in the Special Title Series. Initial faculty appointment will be at the Assistant or Associate Professor rank with tenure eligibility and an anticipated distribution of effort of 75% service and 25% research, reviewed annually. The appointee is expected to serve as the non-administrative section head of the UKVLD's Molecular and Next-generation sequencing (NGS) laboratories with oversight of daily diagnostic testing, new test development, and process improvement as part of the service appointment. In addition, the appointee will be involved in applied research in veterinary molecular diagnostics and in shared committee work as needed at the UKVDL, Department of Veterinary Science, MGCAFE, and/or the university level, as needed. Direct and indirect communication with veterinarians and animal producers regarding diagnostic cases is an important role for the person in this position. UKVDL is a full service, veterinary diagnostic laboratory located at 1490 Bull Lea Rd., Lexington, KY that serves Kentucky's signature equine industry, substantial beef cattle and poultry industries, and small ruminants, wildlife and companion animal populations. UKVDL is accredited by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD) and is an active member of the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN).Position Responsibilities: Our new colleague will oversee the Molecular and Next-generation sequencing laboratories and technicians to ensure that test results are reported in a timely and accurate manner. The candidate is encouraged to develop an extramurally funded research program related to veterinary diagnostics, collaborate with colleagues internal and external to the department, and implement and validate new diagnostic assays to further support Kentucky's animal industries. Additionally, the candidate will develop and implement a sound vision and strategy for the Molecular and NGS laboratories to ensure continuous quality improvement and AAVLD accreditation. Creative use of diagnostic case materials for applied research projects, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications is required. Further participation and service to university committees, professional organizations, and continuing medical education are required.Skills / Knowledge / AbilitiesDoes this position have supervisory responsibilities? - YesPreferred Education/Experience - DVM plus PhD in molecular biology or related field. Record of communication of test results and interpretations to clinicians. Record of supervision of diagnostic laboratory staff.Deadline to ApplyOpen Until Filled - YesOur University Community - We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus. The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking. Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.Applicant DocumentsRequired DocumentsCurriculum VitaCover LetterAcademic TranscriptOptional Documents