The Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (MSU VDL) plays a critical role in safeguarding animal and public health through accurate, timely and innovative diagnostic services. To maintain and advance this mission in an increasingly complex and rapidly advancing environment, this leadership position is necessary to support faculty and academic staff development as well as laboratory strategic advancement, ensuring the laboratory remains at the forefront of diagnostic excellence.

The inaugural assistant director will contribute significantly towards the vision and future of the MSU VDL, maintaining the laboratory’s position as a leader in animal health diagnostics, fostering the development of world-class diagnosticians and ensuring laboratory commitment to robust quality management. The administrative component will approximate 60% with the expectation that the assistant director will provide diagnostic service in their specialty and contribute to the research and teaching missions of the MSU VDL and College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM).

As a member of the MSU VDL leadership team, the assistant director will:

• Provide guidance and oversight of strategic initiatives to accelerate process improvements and service innovation
• Support and coordinate professional development and performance assessment of faculty and academic staff, to enhance engagement, retention and productivity
• Serve as a liaison between scientific subject-matter-experts and operational leadership, to ensure alignment and transparency

This position will be a Health Programs Faculty assigned to the MSU VDL and academically designated within the Department of Pathology and Diagnostic Investigation or other academic department of choice. Please see the complete description of the Michigan State University HP system for more details.

• Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or equivalent degree.
• Certification in a veterinary specialty recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
• Advanced knowledge of veterinary diagnostics and laboratory operations, including data and quality management.
• Leadership skills in academic or diagnostic settings.
• Strong abilities in strategic planning and project management.

• Post-graduate research training (MS or PhD) or commensurate research experience.
• Experience guiding and managing professional development and performance assessment for faculty and academic staff
• Experience managing operational and administrative projects to promote diagnostic laboratory advancement.

Complete applications must include: 1) a letter of intent summarizing qualifications, professional accomplishments, and future goals aligned with the mission of the VDL and the CVM; 2) a curriculum vitae; and 3) the names and contact information for 3 professional references. Successful applicants are expected to specify their contributions to diagnostic laboratory advancement and faculty and staff professional development. Letters of recommendation will only be requested for top applicants.

Complete applications received by March 13, 2026, will receive full consideration by the search committee. If suitable candidates are not identified by the deadline, late submissions will be considered until the position is filled.

Direct inquiries to the Chair of the Search Committee, Rinosh Mani (manirino@msu.edu).