Scientist I

Job Title
Scientist I

Requisition Number
RE55273

Working Title

Department Name
81250:VETERINARY DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY

Work Location
Lexington, KY

Grade Level
44

Salary Range
$44,678-71,469/year

Type of Position
Staff

Position Time Status
Full-Time

Required Education

MS

Click here for more information about equivalencies:
https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

Required Related Experience

No experience required.

Required License/Registration/Certification

None

Physical Requirements

Sitting at a computer for extended periods of time, repetitive motion and general lab duties. Lifting, pushing and pulling of objects up to 50 lbs.

Shift

Days; Monday through Friday from 8:00 – 5:00 PM. Weekend or holiday work may be required in rare instances.

Job Summary

The Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL), in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, seeks a Scientist I. The VDL develops and applies state-of-the-art diagnostic methodology to improve animal health and marketability, to protect the public health and to assist in the preservation of the human-animal bond through the principles of One Health.

About this Role
This position plays a key role in the Molecular/Next-generation Sequencing Laboratory and is responsible for supporting diagnostic testing and assay development by performing nucleic acid extraction and preparing NGS libraries, operating and maintaining NGS instrumentation, assisting with sequence data analysis, and ensuring adherence to quality control standards. The successful candidate will collaborate with the section head to develop, optimize, and validate new NGS-based diagnostic assays in accordance with established protocols and regulatory guidelines, while maintaining accurate documentation and participating in quality assurance activities. This individual will also work in the molecular diagnostics section by performing real-time PCR assays (including USDA regulated assays), contributing to timely and accurate diagnostic results, and supporting overall laboratory operations in a collaborative, regulated environment.

This position is located at the Coldstream Research Campus off Newtown Pike (great location and free parking). This is part of a rapidly developing corridor, offering convenient access to both I-75 and New Circle Road with the added benefit of access to complimentary parking at the facility.

Why Join Us
At the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, you’ll find a community that values collaboration, growth, and recognition. Benefits of joining our team include:

• Exceptional benefits package.
• A formal mentoring program to support your professional development
• Access to a staff development fund for continued learning and skill building
• Dedicated staff recognition programs that celebrate your contributions
• A shared commitment to making the University of Kentucky the University of, for, and with Kentucky

Join us in shaping the future of teaching and learning—where innovation meets impact.

For additional information about the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab please click here. To find out more about Martin-Gatton CAFE and how the college supports the mission of this being the University of, for, and with Kentucky, Click Here.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Ability to interact with state-of-the-art laboratory information management system (LIMS).

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No

Preferred Education/Experience

Molecular Diagnostics, QA/QC, LIMS and Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory experience.

Deadline to Apply
08/04/2026

Our 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.

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.