Research Specialist

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; North Carolina; On-site; USD 34,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Epidemiology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill seeks a Research Specialist to support the BioSpecimen Processing core. The role involves molecular biology, DNA/RNA extraction, quantitation, and handling of human biospecimens in a BSL-2 laboratory.

You will operate inventory systems, store specimens, and ensure SOPs are followed with strict deadlines; the position requires a Bachelor’s degree and experience in SOP-driven labs, plus familiarity with LIMS and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment.
• Experience in a SOP-driven laboratory environment is preferred.
• Familiarity with LIMS and standard lab equipment is expected.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology and general laboratory techniques to support BSP operations.
• Extract DNA and RNA from biospecimens and assess quality and quantity.
• Quantitate, aliquot, store biospecimens and track them in inventory systems.
• Operate high-throughput equipment following SOPs in a BSL-2 setting.
• Maintain compliance with HIPAA-regulated procedures and deadlines.

Skills

SOP-driven laboratory experience

LIMS familiarity

Robotic equipment experience

Biosafety level-2 procedures

HIPAA-regulated environment knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment

Tools

Pipettes (single/multi-channel)

Centrifuge

Laminar flow hoods

Autoclaves

Spectrophotometers

Job description

Proposed Start Date

Posting InformationPosting InformationDepartment Epidemiology - 463501Career Area Research ProfessionalsPosting Open Date 10/12/2026Application Deadline 10/19/2026Position Type Temporary Staff (SHRA)Position Title Research SpecialistPosition Number 20073014Vacancy ID S028143Full-time/Part-time Full-Time TemporaryHours per week 40Work ScheduleMonday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PMPosition Location North Carolina, USHiring Range $25.00 - $29.00/per hourEstimated Duration of Appointment 6 months or longer

Position Information

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities . Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit

The Department of Epidemiology is one of the seven departments located in the Gillings School of Global Public Health. The department’s primary focus is to the development and application of research methods to understand the patterns and causes of health and disease, and the application of that knowledge to improving the health of populations. We provide strong training in research methods and opportunities for the application of epidemiology to a wide range of health problems through our research. The achievements of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni have enabled us to become one of the leading academic departments of epidemiology in the world. The department has 40 Tenured-Tenure Track / 10 Joint Tenure-Track Faculty, 24 Fixed Term / 3 Joint Fixed Term Faculty, 120 Adjuncts, 32 EHRA Non-Faculty, 22 Postdocs, 28 SHRA (Staff), 32 SHRA Temporary and 202 Students. The department’s operating budget is 27 million a year.

Position Summary

The purpose of this position is to provide laboratory research support for the general operation of the BioSpecimen Processing ( BSP ) University-wide, College of American Pathologist ( CAP ) accredited core facility. An organized and detail-oriented individual who will need to perform molecular biology and general laboratory techniques to fulfill the requirements of this position. A major component of the work will be processing human biospecimen samples manually or on automated high-throughput pieces of equipment. Specifically, the position will involve extraction of DNA and RNA from biospecimens, quantitation and quality analysis of extracted specimens, aliquoting, and storage of biospecimens. Use of a computer-based specimen inventory and tracking system to detail receipt, processing, aliquoting, storage and distribution of all specimens will be required. All tasks must be performed successfully in a Biosafety Level 2 ( BSL -2) laboratory environment following strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) with adherence to tight deadlines.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Management Preferences

• Experience working in a SOP -driven laboratory environment.
• Experience working with a Laboratory Information Management System ( LIMS ).
• Familiarity with commonly used laboratory equipment including single- and multi-channel pipettes, centrifuge, laminar flow hoods, autoclaves, and spectrophotometers.
• Knowledge of safe blood work procedures and experience working with human biospecimens in a biosafety level-two laboratory.
• Knowledge of research and regulatory standards to maintain a high throughput, HIPAA -regulated, SOP - driven laboratory environment.
• Experience using robotic equipment in a high throughput environment.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

• Ability to lift or move up to 50lbs (for transfer of dry ice shipments as well as removing and restoring full freezer racks) with or without accommodations
• Ability to work with dry ice, -80 C and Liquid Nitrogen freezers using appropriate personal protective equipment
• Ability to move Liquid Nitrogen tanks on carts and un-hook and re-hook tanks to fill hoses

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions

Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/326844

Temporary Employment Policies

Temporary Employment Policies

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.