Research and Lab Specialist at InsideHigherEd

Posting Number:PG194780SPInternal Recruitment:NoWorking Title:Research and Lab SpecialistAnticipated Hiring Range:Commensurate with Experience ($54,172 - $60,000)Work Schedule:Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pmJob Location:Raleigh, NCDepartment:Plant & Microbial BiologyAbout the Department:The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology supports teaching, research, and extension programs in fundamental plant biology and microbiology, including basic and applied research, teaching graduate and undergraduate courses, mentoring graduate and undergraduate students, and outreach to state and national clientele.The Kleiner Lab studies plant and animal microbiomes using a variety of cultivation dependent and independent approaches. We seek to understand how functional interactions between organisms lead to beneficial or detrimental outcomes for the host. One of the core approaches that we use is high-resolution mass spectrometry based metaproteomics. The Kleiner Lab is part of the NCSU Chancellor’s Excellence Cluster on Microbiomes and Complex Microbial Communities, which provides a vibrant community of researchers at NCSU and frequent exchanges with the community across campus. The Kleiner Lab is involved in collaborative research at NCSU, nationally and internationally.Wolfpack Perks and Benefits:As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.What we offer:Medical, Dental, and VisionFlexible Spending AccountRetirement ProgramsDisability PlansLife InsuranceAccident PlanPaid Time Off and Other Leave Programs12 Holidays Each YearTuition and Academic AssistanceAnd so much more!Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.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 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.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 analysisRequired 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.Valid NC Driver's License required:YesCommercial Driver's License Required?:NoJob Open Date:12/09/2025Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.):12/16/2025Notice to Applicants:Please make sure that the work history you list on your application is identical to the work history listed on your resume. The application must be filled out completely, do not use the phrase “see resume”.Special Instructions:Please attach a Cover Letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Position Number:00110136Position Type:SHRAPosition Classification Band Title:Research SpecialistPosition Classification Band Level:ContributingPosition Classification Salary Range:$ 45,454 - $ 109,409Salary Grade Equivalency:MH14Alternate Option:If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week):1.00Appointment:12 Month RecurringMandatory Designation - Adverse Weather:Non Mandatory - Adverse WeatherMandatory Designation - Emergency Events:Mandatory - Medical EmergenciesTime Limited Position:YesTime-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable):3 years with possible renewal due to fundingDepartment Id:110801 - Plant & Microbial BiologyEEO: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 [email protected] 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.