New

Research Associate - Plant and Microbial Biology

North Carolina State University

$58,000 - $65,000

life insurance, flexible benefit account, paid time off

United States, North Carolina, Raleigh

Mar 30, 2026

Posting Information

Posting Number	PG194557EP
Internal Recruitment	No
Working Title	Research Associate - Plant and Microbial Biology
Anticipated Hiring Range	$58,000 - $65,000
Work Schedule	Monday - Friday; 8AM-5PM hours may vary.
Job Location	Raleigh, NC
Department	Plant & Microbial Biology
About 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.
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 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	The Research Associate will be responsible for performing field & laboratory research on crops. The Research Associate will help to coordinate, manage, and collect data, including research in the field and lab. The incumbent will be responsible for planning and implementing assays in the laboratory, preparing research plans, conducting research, collecting and analyzing data, and contributing to writing reports and communicating results to stakeholders. The Research Associate will also be responsible for record keeping, molecular analyses, maintaining safety in the laboratory, and presenting results in written reports and oral presentations. . Duties include, but are not limited to: Use plant physiology research techniques to measure plant responses to the environment Use appropriate tools and software to document and analyze collected data. Communicate summaries of experimental results to the lab staff and principal investigator. Assist with the evaluation, interpretation and assessment of experimental data and quality control of assays. Participate in meetings with the principal investigator and research staff. Design and execute experiments involving crop responses to the abiotic environmental factors. Maintain detailed research records in laboratory/field notebooks and computer storage systems. Periodically monitor equipment to ensure proper functioning. Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills. Work independently to make decisions and adjust protocols to manipulate the research.
Other Responsibilities	Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience	M.S. in Plant Biology, Crop Science, or related field. 4+ years research experience in crop environmental physiology.
Other Required Qualifications	Ability to follow detailed protocols and standard operating procedures for field and laboratory tasks Experience with basic laboratory practices, including labeling, cleaning, and safe handling of chemicals and biological samples Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and navigate uneven terrain during fieldwork Ability to lift and carry equipment and supplies up to 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodations Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for maintaining records and sample tracking Basic computer skills, including experience with spreadsheets, data entry, and file management Effective written and verbal communication skills Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Preferred Qualifications	N/A
Required License(s) or Certification(s)	Valid NC Driver's License
Valid NC Driver's License required	Yes
Commercial Driver's License required	No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date	03/30/2026
Anticipated Close Date	Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants	Please include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least three professional references.

Position Details

Position Number	00111972
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	Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID	110801 - Plant & Microbial Biology
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.