"Research and Lab Specialist"

Research and Lab Specialist

Company: North Carolina State University

Job Location: Raleigh, NC

Category: Laboratory and Research

Type: Full-Time

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Department: 110801 - Plant & Microbial Biology

Location: Raleigh, NC

Essential Job Duties:

The Kleiner Lab at North Carolina State University (www.kleinerlab.org) is seeking a Research Specialist to support ongoing research on complex microbial communities, microbial symbioses, and metaproteomics. The successful candidate will contribute to experimental design, execution, and data analysis within a dynamic and collaborative research environment.

Responsibilities include managing multiple concurrent research projects; cultivating and maintaining root-associated bacterial cultures; performing molecular and biochemical assays; and compiling and analyzing experimental data. The position requires proficiency in molecular and cell biology techniques applied to bacterial systems. Research outcomes will support publications, conference presentations, and grant development. In addition to research duties, the Research Specialist will assist with laboratory management, including maintaining safety documentation and compliance, coordinating undergraduate research assistant schedules, and overseeing equipment purchasing, maintenance, and repair.

At present, this position is time-limited for three (3) years, with possible renewal based on funding.

Other Work/Responsibilities:

Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Minimum Experience/Education:

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Required Qualifications:

• Microbiology and Molecular Biology Expertise: Demonstrated experience in microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry techniques, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, and related laboratory methods.
• Microbial Cultivation and Preservation: Proficiency in cultivating, maintaining, and preserving bacterial cultures; anaerobic cultivation experience is a plus.
• Microscopy Skills: Ability to perform microscopy for cell counting and phenotypic characterization.
• Data and Software Proficiency: Experience using Microsoft Office applications and scientific data analysis tools; familiarity with R Studio is advantageous.
• Field Research Capability: Ability to participate in field work at agricultural or marine sites, including sampling, sample processing, and supporting field logistics; willingness to travel up to two weeks per year.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Microbiology and Molecular Biology Expertise: Demonstrated experience in microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry techniques, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, and related laboratory methods.
• Microbial Cultivation and Preservation: Proficiency in cultivating, maintaining, and preserving bacterial cultures; anaerobic cultivation experience is a plus.
• Microscopy Skills: Ability to perform microscopy for cell counting and phenotypic characterization.
• Data and Software Proficiency: Experience using Microsoft Office applications and scientific data analysis tools; familiarity with R Studio is advantageous.
• Proteomics and mass spectrometry: operation of high-resolution, accurate mass mass spectrometer (e.g. Thermo Exploris or Astral) for mass spectrometry based proteomics and proteomics data analysis

Required license or certification:

• Valid NC Driver's License or the ability to obtain one within 60 days of hire. A DL is needed to drive to field sites for sampling.

Position Number: 00110136

AA/EEO Statement:

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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