Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Assistant/Associate Professor of Molecular Diagnostics
Requisition Number
FE05093
Working Title
Molecular Biologist
Department Name
81250:VETERINARY DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY
Work Location
Lexington, KY
Type of Position
Faculty
Position Time Status
Full-Time
Tenure Track Status
Tenure Track
Required 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/A
Job 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.
Applications will be reviewed beginning February 1, 2027, and will continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants may contact Dr. Michelle Arnold for questions at michelle.arnold@uky.edu
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
Yes
Preferred 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 Apply
Open Until Filled
Yes
