Temporary Research Specialist - Mills River, NC

Temporary Research Specialist - Mills River, NC

North Carolina State University is seeking a Temporary Research Specialist to conduct field and laboratory research on apple and blackberry diseases. This position is located at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center in Mills River, NC.

• Plant and maintain apple and blackberry crops in the field and greenhouse.
• Perform sterile technique work, store long‑term microbial cultures, harvest host and pathogen tissues, isolate RNA/DNA from plant and pathogen tissues, and conduct PCR, quantitative PCR, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Conduct in‑vitro fungicide sensitivity evaluations.
• Assist the Principal Investigator in fungicide applications and in collecting, analyzing, and publishing data.
• Develop extension publications, support lab web page design, and present findings orally and as poster presentations.
• Plan field days and extension workshops.
• Manage laboratory operations, including training and supervising lab staff, ensuring lab safety compliance, and performing equipment maintenance.
• Purchase, stock, and maintain equipment.

• Posting Number: PG195674TM
• Position Number: 11
  
  ASO
  3625
• Position Type:
  Temporary
• Work Schedule:
  
  40 hours per week, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday‑Friday

• Minimum of a 4-year degree or equivalent training/experience.
• Experience working with plants and microorganisms.
• Experience with plant care and sterile techniques.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and SAS (or similar analysis platforms).
• Experience with data recording and entry.
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to manuscript preparation and to search and read scientific literature.
• Ability to mentor staff and develop research protocols.
• Experience giving oral and poster presentations and writing scientific publications.
• Preferred:
  Master’s degree in plant biology, plant pathology, or related field.
• Preferred:
  Experience with horticultural crops and farming equipment.
• Preferred:
  More than 2 years of experience in plant biology and microbial research.
• Preferred: NC Pesticide Applicators license or ability to obtain one within 6 months of hire.

• Valid North Carolina driver’s license.

For general questions about the application process, contact Human Resources at (919) 515‑2135 or email workatncstate.

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, or veteran status. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process are encouraged to contact the Office of Equal Opportunity at 919‑513‑0574.

Final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to the start date to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E‑Verify as required by federal law.