Research Technician - Journey

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 43,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

The Kovalski Lab at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking a full-time Research Technician to support RNA biology and cancer research. You will perform molecular biology techniques, data analysis and contribute to publications in a dynamic lab environment.

Minimum qualifications include lab experience and strong organization skills; you will join a collaborative team within Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. Working hours are Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm, in Chapel Hill, NC.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated competencies to perform the work.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques is preferred.
• Ability to maintain accurate lab records and data organization.

Responsibilities

• Perform DNA extraction, PCR, plasmid preparation and basic cloning.
• Conduct flow cytometry, gel electrophoresis, RNA isolation and qPCR.
• Carry out NGS library prep and data analysis; maintain lab records and safety compliance.

Skills

Molecular biology

Genetics

Biochemistry

Data organization

Tools

MS Office

NGS

Job description

Posting Information

Department Lineberger Compr Cancer Center-426801

Career Area Research Professionals

Is this an internal only recruitment? No

Posting Open Date 09/22/2026

Application Deadline 09/28/2026

Position Type Permanent Staff (SHRA)

Position Title Research Technician - Journey

Salary Grade Equivalent MH06 / GN06

Working Title Research Technician

Position Number 20078748

Vacancy ID P021399

Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited Full-Time Permanent

Hours per week 40

Work Schedule Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm

Work Location CHAPEL HILL, NC

Position Location North Carolina, US

Hiring Range $42,971 - $53,000

Pay Band Information

To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet .

Notice to Applicants

This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

Position Summary 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 for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC -Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit

Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others whom we serve. We accomplish this by providing leadership and excellence in the interrelated areas of patient care, education and research.

Patient care: We promote health and provide superb clinical care while maintaining our strong tradition of reaching underserved populations and reducing health disparities across North Carolina and beyond.

Education: We prepare tomorrow`s healthcare professionals and biomedical researchers from all backgrounds by facilitating learning within innovative and integrated curricula and team-oriented interprofessional education to ensure a highly skilled workforce.

Research: We develop and support a rich array of outstanding health sciences research programs, centers and resources. We provide infrastructure and opportunities for collaboration among disciplines throughout and beyond our university to support outstanding research. We foster programs in the areas of basic, translational, mechanistic and population research.

Position Summary

The Kovalski Lab in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, in conjunction with the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, is seeking a highly motivated full-time Research Technician. In the Kovalski lab, we use a systems-level approach to identify the functional molecular mechanisms of post-transcriptional control in cancer. We are very interested in how specific proteins are expressed at the proper time and place in cancer through the process of selective RNA translation. Our goal is to use this knowledge to identify new therapeutic targets to combat cancer.

The Research Technician will work on specific projects in RNA biology and cancer and will have the unique opportunity to work in a dynamic research environment, with the possibility of publishing in a high-impact journal. The position duties include performing molecular biology techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR , plasmid preparation, basic cloning, flow cytometry, NGS library prep and analysis, gel electrophoresis, tissue culture, western blotting, RNA isolation and qPCR. Additional duties will include scientific writing, organization of data appropriate to the role in the lab, record keeping and data entry, active participation in group meetings and shared lab responsibilities including reagent preparation, inventory maintenance, and safety compliance.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

Management Preferences

Training or experience in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or a related life sciences discipline, with demonstrated independent laboratory research experience.

Experience with next-generation sequencing technologies and data analysis, along with proficiency in RNA biology

Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate and comprehensive research records, including laboratory notebooks, data organization, documentation, and preparation of figures and datasets for publications, presentations, and research proposals.

Preferred proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe applications (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Illustrator).

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

• Requires handling of potentially hazardous chemicals and biological materials.
• Frequent lifting and carrying of boxes up to 25 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Frequently performing repetitive hand and arm motions while pipetting.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Position/Schedule Requirements

Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens, Exposure to Hazardous Materials, Laboratory

Quick Link

https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/325816

Contact Information

Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

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.