Microbiologist

Job Details

Salary:
***Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.***

Job Category:Academic Staff

Employment Type:Terminal (Fixed Term)

Job Profile:Microbiologist I

Job Summary:

This Microbiologist position is part of the Molecular Diagnostics and Bacteriology sections of the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (WVDL). Primary responsibilities include preparing diagnostic specimens for molecular biology assays, isolating nucleic acids, performing real-time and conventional PCR assays, and accurately reporting results.

In addition, this position supports the Bacteriology section by preparing microbiological media using aseptic technique, performing media quality control, maintaining specialized laboratory equipment, and assisting with other assigned laboratory duties.

This position will work collaboratively with a team of 17 microbiologists in a highly productive laboratory environment. Diagnostic molecular biology and bacteriology are critical to animal health, disease prevention and control, and treatment decisions. WVDL’s mission is to promote animal and human health and support the state and national agricultural economy through the delivery of high-quality veterinary diagnostics and exemplary customer service. This hands-on position provides an opportunity to directly contribute to that mission.

This is a terminal position expected to last up to one year. The position has the possibility to be extended or converted to an ongoing appointment based on need and/or funding.

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Performs, interprets, and reports microbiological tests or assays for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of illnesses or determine sources of contamination in the environment - 20%
• Communicates with internal and external stakeholders as needed - 5%
• Prepares, reviews, verifies, and reports test result data - 5%
• Operates and maintains laboratory instrumentation and information management systems - 5%
• Conducts biological research experiments employing quality control and quality assurance practices and adhering to regulatory standards and requirements - 5%
• Prepares specimens for scientific examination and analysis and/or prepares the laboratory for accreditation audits/inspections - 60%

Department:

Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (WVDL)

Molecular Diagnostics/Bacteriology

Compensation:

Minimum $49,386.00 ANNUAL (12 months) Depending on Qualifications

Salary will be assigned within the appropriate range, commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience. This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please see https://www.wisconsin.edu/ohrwd/benefits/download/fasl.pdf

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with a wide range of sample matrices
• Experience with isolating nucleic acid
• Experience with polymerase chain reactions

Education:

Bachelor's Degree Required

Bachelor's in Biology, Microbiology, or other related scientific discipline is strongly preferred

How to Apply:

To begin the application process, click the "Apply" button.

To be considered, please submit a resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications. In your cover letter, we encourage you to provide specific examples demonstrating how your experience meets the required and preferred qualifications.

The application reviewers will be relying on written application materials to determine which qualified applicants will advance in the recruitment process. The search committee will review all application materials after the posted deadline. We will notify selected applicants to participate further in the selection process directly. References will be requested of final candidates. All applicants will be notified after the search is complete and a candidate has been selected.

The application deadline is 11:59 pm CST on April 29, 2026.

Please note that successful applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without need of employer sponsorship, on or before the effective date of appointment. University sponsorship is not available for this position.