Research Associate - McCarthy Lab

Research Associate - McCarthy Lab

Company:
North Carolina State University

Job Location:

Category:
Laboratory and Research

Type:
Full-Time

Join the Pack! A community with nearly 8,000 faculty and staff, and 30,000 students. NC State is one of the largest employers in North Carolina, offering a large range of career opportunities. Visit us at https://jobs.hr.ncsu.edu/.

Location: Raleigh, NC

Essential Job Duties:
Join a dynamic research team dedicated to uncovering how mesenchymal cells orchestrate the balance of intestinal stem cells during development, health, and disease. Our work dives deep into the extracellular signaling pathways that drive tissue-cell interactions, specifically exploring how mesenchymal dysfunction contributes to Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

By joining our lab, you will leverage a sophisticated toolkit-ranging from in vivo genetic mouse models to cutting-edge 3D intestinal organoid cultures-to characterize the mechanisms of tissue homeostasis and repair.

A Collaborative Ecosystem
We are proud members of a world-class scientific community. Our lab maintains deep-rooted connections with gastrointestinal researchers at UNC Chapel Hill and Duke University through the NIH-funded Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease (CGIBD). This provides our team with unparalleled access to collaborative expertise, specialized cores, and a vibrant network of GI experts.

Your Role & Impact
As a Research Associate, you will be at the heart of our experimental discovery. You will work under the direct mentorship of Dr. Neil McCarthy, gaining hands-on experience in high-impact translational science.

Laboratory Research & Technical Innovation

• Molecular & Histology: Spearhead DNA/RNA collection, RT-qPCR, and advanced sequencing (bulk and single-cell).
• Imaging & Biochemistry: Execute precise tissue processing for immunofluorescence, in situ hybridization, and Western blots, utilizing confocal imaging to visualize discovery.
• Advanced Analytics: Harness flow cytometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) to isolate and analyze specific cell populations.
• Cell Culture: Master the art of 3D organoid cultures and primary cell line maintenance.

Model System Management

• Manage mouse colony husbandry and PCR-based genotyping.
• Lead tissue harvesting for downstream mechanistic and histological studies, directly contributing to our in vivo data.

Experimental Oversight & Data Strategy

• Maintain precise, digital records of experimental workflows.
• Utilize advanced software to analyze, interpret, and ensure the quality of complex datasets.
• Collaborate and present your findings during lab meetings, contributing your voice to the scientific direction of the project.

Laboratory Operations & Mentorship

• Ensure the seamless flow of the lab by overseeing inventory and logistics.
• Maintain and calibrate specialized equipment.
• Play a key role in the lab culture by helping train and guide junior researchers.

Who You Are
We are looking for a proactive, organized, and curious scientist who thrives in both independent and collaborative settings. If you are someone who takes initiative, manages time effectively, and is passionate about gastrointestinal biology, we want to hear from you.

We hope you will consider joining our team!

Other Work/Responsibilities:

• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Experience/Education:

• Advanced Degree: A relevant post-baccalaureate or terminal degree in a biological or biomedical field (licensure may be required depending on specialization).
• Professional Research Track: A relevant Bachelor's degree supported by a proven track record of independent research experience.
• Equivalent Expertise: A comprehensive combination of substantive independent experience and specialized education that demonstrates mastery of the required laboratory techniques.

Required Qualifications:
N/A

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with and handling DNA, RNA, and protein samples.
• Experience with cell culture.
• Experience with microscopy.
• Experience with flow cytometry.

Required License or Certification:
NA