Posted:
3/8/2026, 5:00:00 PM
Location(s):
Iowa, United States ⋅ Ames, Iowa, United States
Experience Level(s):
Junior ⋅ Mid Level
Field(s):
Medical, Clinical & Veterinary
Start your laboratory career in a nationally recognized diagnostic facility that processes more than 1.7 million tests each year to support veterinarians, livestock producers, and animal owners. The Serology Section at the ISU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory performs more than 550,000 antibody assays annually, providing essential information that helps monitor herd and flock health, qualify animals for international movement, and support disease investigations for both livestock and companion animals
As a Diagnostic Associate I, you will receive hands‑on training in core serologic assays, including ELISA and AGID, while working alongside experienced technologists and faculty. The Serology team also contributes to research and the validation of new diagnostic methods, giving you opportunities to learn innovative approaches while supporting real‑world animal health decisions.
In this role, you will work with a team of technologists, faculty, and support staff who help keep the Serology Section running smoothly. You will also interact with other areas of the VDL as samples move through different parts of the lab.
Main Responsibilities:
• Run serologic tests, serving as the primary technician for two ELISA assays and a backup for four others. You will help report and release results based on each test’s schedule and turnaround timeframe.
• Contribute to quality control by reviewing QC data, watching for unusual results, and helping decide when retesting or confirmatory testing is needed.
• Accession and prepare samples for testing, make sure they meet submission requirements, and distribute them to the correct testing areas. You will also help with long‑term sample storage.
• Help keep the lab operating smoothly by maintaining supplies, assisting with equipment care, and completing dish room tasks such as washing glassware and autoclaving.
• Work collaboratively with serology colleagues, faculty experts, sample receiving staff, and other VDL sections that support the lab’s large statewide diagnostic workload.
Additional Details:
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Location: Ames, Iowa within the Serology Section of the VDL
About the Department:
The Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory is an AAVLD‑accredited, full‑service laboratory that supports animal and public health across the United States. The VDL handles more than 127,000 cases and 1.7 million tests each year, offering diagnostics in serology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology, toxicology, histopathology, and molecular testing.
The Serology Section alone performs more than 550,000 antibody assays annually, supporting herd monitoring, export certification, veterinary casework, and teaching. The team collaborates with other institutions, validates new assays, and continually refines sample handling and testing approaches to support accurate, reliable diagnostics.
Example of Duties
• Performs a variety of diagnostic tests within a specific specialty area.
• Acts as a liaison between pathologists and laboratory personnel for research or case series submissions.
• Develops, validates and implements new assays for diagnostic and research purposes.
• Evaluates current protocols for effectiveness of tests and uses independent judgement to determine when adjustments to procedures are necessary.
• Assists in training staff and students.
• Works with clients to assist diagnosticians in communicating and troubleshooting testing needs and results.
Level Guidelines
• Individual contributor position with developing professional and/or technical skills working under immediate to general supervision
• Grasps professional-level knowledge and concepts of field while working in a progressive learning mode
• Works on problems and issues of somewhat limited scope
• Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data for which answers are available or can be obtained
• Responds to inquiries and issues, escalating to manager or higher level workers as appropriate
• May lead projects of limited scope and complexity
• May provide guidance to students
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
Website: https://www.iastate.edu/
Headquarter Location: Ames, Iowa, United States
Employee Count: 5001-10000
Year Founded: 1858
IPO Status: Private
Last Funding Type: Grant
Industries: Education ⋅ Sporting Goods ⋅ Sports ⋅ Universities