Microbiologist

Department SDSU-Animal Disease Res & Diagnostic Lab

Physical Location of Position (City) Brookings

South Dakota State University’s Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory ( ADRDL ) is seeking a motivated Microbiologist to join our Molecular Diagnostics section. This position plays a key role in supporting the laboratory’s daily operations by performing technical work to identify and characterize pathogenic organisms. The successful candidate will contribute to diagnostic testing that protects animal and public health.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

• Perform routine PCR testing for the detection of PRRSV.
• Conduct testing, analysis, and reporting of bacterial and viral pathogens, including but not limited to Porcine Circovirus, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, Tritrichomonas foetus, Swine Influenza, Classical Swine Fever ( CSF ), African Swine Fever ( ASF ), and Foot-and-Mouth Disease ( FMD ).
• Follow established protocols for processing specimens and performing analytical tests to identify known or unknown pathogenic microorganisms.
• Carry out PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2.
• Maintain accurate pipette calibration records for the Molecular Diagnostics section to ensure compliance with AAVLD accreditation standards.
• Record daily test control data and standardize analysis for specific PCR tests.

SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions.

Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.

Knowledge of:

• Molecular diagnostic testing methods and techniques.
• Laboratory safety protocols and quality control procedures.
• PROIV and Sandi LIMS systems for data entry (preferred).

Skill & Ability to:

• Perform precise fine motor tasks required for molecular-based testing.
• Maintain strong attention to detail and accuracy in all testing processes.
• Balance client needs while ensuring high-quality diagnostic results.
• Work effectively as part of a collaborative laboratory team.

Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

SDState accepts applications through an online employment site.  the URL below, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, resume, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references.

Email applications will not be accepted.

(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..edu

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check. SDState is a tobacco-free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students.

This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.

[SE8509; 40661]

Posting Date 02/02/2026

Closing Date 02/09/2026

No

40 hours per week, routinely 8am-5pm. Some holidays and evenings expected. Tuesday-Saturday 8AM-5PM and some weekends, holidays and evenings. Four microbiologist positions available; one position permanent Tuesday-Saturday and the other three on rotation as back-up for the permanent position.