Research Technician - PHHI

About the Department

North Carolina State University Plants for Human Health Institute (PHHI) supports research, teaching, and extension efforts aimed at improving human health through plant‑based discoveries and innovations. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, PHHI advances innovations in nutrition, agriculture, and biotechnology to promote healthier communities.

The Komarnytsky Lab, part of the Plants for Human Health Institute and Department of Food, Bioprocessing, and Nutrition Sciences, has developed an integrated translational pipeline linking molecular insights from cell culture and animal models to physiological outcomes in clinical settings, focusing on metabolic resilience, pharmacogenomics, optimized physical performance, and innovative botanical supplementation strategies. The Research Technician will provide vital, hands‑on support to the clinical research program, contributing to both clinical and laboratory investigations.

This position is integral to the precise execution of the Human Performance Laboratory (HPL) clinical trials, including participant screening and recruitment, clinical assessments, sample processing, biomarker analysis, cell culture, and data management.

Location:

Kannapolis, NC

Work Schedule:

Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Salary: $45,000 – $49,000 per year

• Prepare, calibrate, and operate clinical research equipment (e.g., metabolic carts, treadmills, cycle ergometers, body composition analyzers)
• Perform standardized procedures and protocols to support clinical studies
• Collect and process biological samples (e.g., blood, plasma, urine, stool, saliva) using standardized research protocols
• Process, collect, culture, and cryopreserve cells or tissue samples under sterile conditions
• Collect, record, and track clinical study data
• Perform biochemical and ELISA assays for chemical and biomarker quantification
• Screen, recruit, and schedule participants; obtain informed consent; and conduct study visits
• Maintain operational readiness, including stocking clinical supplies, monitoring inventory, and coordinating equipment service logs
• Ensure adherence to university, local, state, and federal regulations, policies, and protocols
• Perform other duties as assigned based on evolving priorities

• Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work
• Experience with a regulated clinical research environment and IRB policies (preferred)
• Experience operating or maintaining exercise physiology equipment (preferred)
• Experience operating or assisting with biomarker quantification assays (preferred)
• Current certification or demonstrated ability to perform phlebotomy (preferred)
• Current certification in CPR/AED and/or First Aid (preferred)

• 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.

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. 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.