Description:
The Department of Animal Sciences and Industry at Kansas State University invites applicants for a Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) position beginning in January 2026. The successful candidate will pursue an M.S. or Ph.D. degree with a focus in Equine Reproduction and will contribute to undergraduate education through teaching support in equine science courses. The position is designed for individuals passionate about equine reproduction and committed to a career in academia or industry leadership. The assistantship includes tuition support and a competitive stipend.
Primary Responsibilities:
•Conduct graduate-level research in equine reproduction under the supervision of Dr. Joann Kouba.
•Assist with classroom and laboratory sessions for undergraduate equine courses (e.g., Equine Reproduction Lab, Foaling, Introductory Management, Training, Exercise Physiology, Health). May be assigned primary responsibility for independently teaching undergraduate courses depending on experience and departmental needs.
•Support ongoing breeding activities at the KSU Horse Unit, including assisting with mare estrous cycle management, semen collection and processing, artificial insemination / embryo transfer, and foaling.
•Participate in extension events including the annual Equine Reproduction Short Course series and youth horse judging contests, departmental seminars, and professional development activities.
Required Qualifications:
•Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Equine Science, Biology, or a related field. A Ph.D. candidate must have an M.S. degree conferred or provide official confirmation that all M.S. degree requirements have been met by the end of Fall 2025.
•Minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0, with demonstrated academic achievement in both animal / equine courses and basic science coursework.
•Demonstrated interest or prior experience in equine reproduction (e.g., foaling, semen collection, artificial insemination, etc.).
•Strong communication and organizational skills.
•Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a research and teaching team, with the expectation of a higher degree of independence for Ph.D. candidates.
•Must meet admission requirements for the M.S. or Ph.D. program at both the university and departmental level.
Preferred Qualifications:
•Previous teaching experience at the undergraduate level.
•Participation in university research activities.
•Experience handling mares, stallions, and foals.
•Familiarity with reproductive technologies such as ultrasonography and artificial insemination.
Application Instructions - For initial consideration, please submit the following materials to jkouba@ksu.edu:
1. Cover letter describing your academic and career goals, relevant experience, and interest in equine reproduction and teaching.
2. Curriculum Vitae or resume.
3. Academic transcripts (unofficial accepted for initial review).
4. Contact information for three professional references including the M.S. Advisor for Ph.D. applicants.
For More Information: Contact Dr. Joann Kouba at jkouba@ksu.edu (email preferred) or visit our departmental website at: https://www.asi.k-state.edu/academics/graduate/