Research Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Posting Details
Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194722EP
Internal Recruitment
No
Working Title
Research Associate
Anticipated Hiring Range
Commensurate with Experience ($55,000 - $62,000)
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Job Location
Raleigh, NC
Department
Department of Molecular and Structural Biochemistry
About the Department
The Department of Molecular and Structural Biochemistry at NC State University conducts research in protein structure and function, metabolism in immune function and disease, and molecular basis of living chemical processes. We engage in innovative research that is internally and externally funded, publish high impact peer-reviewed manuscripts, and administer graduate and undergraduate academic programs in biochemistry.
The Department of Molecular and Structural Biochemistry at NC State offers degree programs at the Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral levels, in addition to a combined BS/MS program. Innovative research programs in the undergraduate and graduate curricula prepare students for advanced studies in medical school, graduate school or other post-graduate programs, or careers in biotechnology and biomedical industries, academia or government.
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 Propositionand learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And 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
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join an ARPA-E-funded project focused on reducing nitrous oxide emissions from corn by integrating ancestral genetics and advanced nitrogen management.
This role centers on developing and deploying analytical approaches for Biological Nitrification Inhibition (BNI) and Biological Denitrification Inhibition (BDI) to rapidly and effectively screen large panels of maize germplasm. The Research Associate will spearhead efforts to mine a newly developed collection of hundreds of Near-Isogenic Lines (NILs) derived from teosinte accessions, aiming to identify the genetic loci responsible for BNI and BDI traits.
Primary Responsibilities:
Research (80%)

• Pipeline Development: Coordinate cross-laboratory efforts at NC State University to develop and optimize experimental pipelines for screening large varied panels for nitrogen efficiency traits.
• Sample & Resource Management: Collect data, gather soil and plant samples, perform biological extractions, and manage resource sharing among NC State laboratories and external collaborators.
• Genetic Mapping Collaboration: Collaborate closely with postdoctoral researchers to conduct QTL mapping and fine-mapping of BNI/BDI traits, identifying candidate regions and alleles across varied teosinte taxa.

Project Management (20%)

• Reporting & Compliance: Assist in the preparation of scientific and administrative quarterly reports to ensure compliance with project milestones and ARPA-E deliverables.
  Financial Administration: Manage project procurement and track budgets to ensure the efficient use of research funds.

Candidate Profile:
We are seeking candidates with a strong track record of organizing complex experiments and managing samples and personnel within laboratories focused on plant/microbial quantitative and statistical genetics, bioinformatics, or the comparative genomic characterization of gene function. Because this role serves as a crucial bridge between different research groups, strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively across laboratories with varied areas and levels of expertise are essential.
Professional Development & Logistics:
As a member of a multi-institutional team (NC State, University of Illinois, ORNL, and University of Arizona), the Research Associate will collaborate with experts in microbial ecology, crop physiology, and biogeochemical modeling.
Professional development opportunities include mentoring students, writing manuscripts, and engaging with industry stakeholders for technology hand-off. Please contact Joseph Gage (jlgage@ncsu.edu), Alex Woodley (alwoodle@ncsu.edu), Christine Hawkes (chawkes@ncsu.edu), Debjani Sihi (dsihi@ncsu.edu), Michael Hyman (mrhyman@ncsu.edu), Rubén Rellán Álvarez (rrellan@ncsu.edu) with any inquiries.
Other Responsibilities
Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience

• Master's degree in Plant Biology, Quantitative, Statistical, or Molecular Genetics, Microbiology, Plant Breeding, or a closely related scientific discipline.

Other Required Qualifications

• Research Experience: Practical experience in experimental design and plant phenotyping, alongside a strong background in quantitative, statistical, and/or molecular genetics.
• Computational Proficiency: Programming and scripting experience using R, Python, Bash, or similar languages for data analysis

Preferred Qualifications

• Applied Phenotyping: Hands-on experience designing and executing experiments across varied environments-including greenhouses, controlled growth chambers, and field trials-specifically aimed at characterizing nitrogen efficiency traits.
• Collaborative Leadership: Proven experience managing or coordinating large-scale, cross-functional, or multi-institutional collaborative research efforts.
• Statistical Foundation: A strong fundamental understanding of statistical methodologies and advanced experimental design and analysis.

Required License(s) or Certification(s)

• Valid driver's license required.
• A valid NC Driver's license within 60 days of hire.

Valid NC Driver's License required
Yes
Commercial Driver's License required
No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
06/17/2026
Anticipated Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include as attachments a resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references.
Position Details
Position Number
00112138
Position Type
EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.0
Appointment
12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Mandatory - Medical Emergencies, Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID
118401 - Biochemistry
EEO
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.