Research Associate - Biotech jobs in Frankfort, KY

TITLE: Research Associate in Animal Science

DEPARTMENT: College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences 

REPORTS TO: Assistant Professor Livestock Nutrition

EFFECTIVE DATE: Position will be Open until Filled

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time 

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Exempt 

PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF JOB:  The Research Associate in the School of Agriculture, Communities, and the Environment in The College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences at Kentucky State University (KSU) will serve as a support person for the Livestock Nutrition Research Program. 

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITY: 

The Research Associate in the School of Agriculture, Communities, and the Environment in The College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences at Kentucky State University (KSU) will serve as a support person for the Livestock Nutrition Research Program. This position is based in Frankfort, KY and reports to the PI of the Livestock Nutrition Research Laboratory. The Research Associate will assist in activities in the laboratory and farm on projects related to beef nutrition, immunity and microbiome in supporting sustainability of small beef production. The Research Associate will also support general maintenance of the laboratory functions and processes.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

•    Provide research assistance, in the form of sample collection, sample analysis, method development, large animal (beef cattle) care, among others to support completion of research objectives.

•    Work independently and responsibly to plan, execute, and deliver high quality research results across laboratory and farm research environments.

•    Coordinate with the PI for timely execution of studies and analysis.

•    Assist in data collection and processing.

•    Identify and implement opportunities for continuous improvement for both the laboratory and farm operations.

•    Maintain laboratory notes and procedures for all research projects according to best practices.

•    Write or update SOPs and other documents in compliance with internal and external regulations.

•    Ensure that all safety guidelines are always followed and maintain a clean and orderly environment.

•    Train graduate and undergraduate students in laboratory and farm procedures.

•    Assist in research and development of manuscripts for publication. 

•    Assisting the PI with readiness for classroom lectures including, but not limited to, preparing examination, class notes, etc.

•    Will supervise research assistants, as well as graduate and undergraduate student researchers.

•    Provide assistance with grant applications, presentations and publications as well as present data at professional society conferences.

•    Other related duties as required. 

OTHER DUTIES: The position will conduct other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS: Masters Degree in Animal Science or a related field required; 4 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified preferred.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:            

•    Extensive knowledge in a specified area of expertise.

•    Ability to use a personal computer and a variety of related software applications.

•    Good knowledge and appreciation of program clientele.

•    Knowledge of research and educational capabilities of USDA and the Land Grant system knowledge base in the area of expertise.

•    Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

•    Research skills.

•    Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

•    Work involves operating and carrying field-based research instrumentation

•    Ability to carry at least 50 lbs

•    This job involves travel. The position will have statewide responsibilities.

Internal Candidates are Encouraged to Apply

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. At this time, Kentucky State University is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa

KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The functions, qualifications, knowledge/skills, and physical requirements listed in this job description represent the essential duties of the job, which the incumbent must be able to perform either with or without reasonable accommodation. The Job Functions listed do not necessarily include all activities that the individual may perform. The College of Agriculture, Community, and the Sciences strives for inclusive excellence and is interested in qualified candidates who can contribute to this effort through their research, teaching, and/or Extension programs.