Research Technician - Journey

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill seeks a Research Technician to join the Carolina Microbiome and Ecology Lab in Chapel Hill, NC. This full-time role supports molecular biology work and microbiome research, generating high-quality molecular data for translational microbiome science.

Responsibilities include DNA extraction, library prep, assay development, data management, and collaboration with international partners.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.
• Prior experience with qPCR and next‑generation sequencing workflows strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Molecular Biology and Library Preparation: Perform DNA extraction from diverse samples, develop and optimize qPCR assays, and prepare libraries for sequencing.
• Assay Development and Optimization: Design, validate, and implement molecular assays for microbial detection and community profiling.
• Sample and Data Management: Organise and track large sample sets and assist in data interpretation for analyses.
• Support for Experimental Models: Assist with bioreactor-based in vitro model experiments and data integration.
• Laboratory Operations: Maintain organization, safety compliance, ordering, and inventory management.
• Collaborative Research and Communication: Participate in meetings and contribute to manuscripts and presentations.

Skills

qPCR

Next-gen sequencing

Tools

qPCR instruments

NGS platforms

Job description

Posting Information

Posting Information

Department Pediatrics-Infectious Disease-412017

Career Area Research Professionals

Is this an internal only recruitment? No

Posting Open Date 08/24/2026

Application Deadline 08/31/2026

Position Type Permanent Staff (SHRA)

Position Title Research Technician - Journey

Salary Grade Equivalent MH06 / GN06

Working Title Research Technician

Position Number 20059200

Vacancy ID P021316

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

If time-limited, estimated duration of appointment 1 year

Hours per week 40

Work Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm; some nights and weekends, as needed.

Work Location CHAPEL HILL, NC

Position Location North Carolina, US

Hiring Range $40,000 - $45,000

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

Be a Tar Heel!

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 across 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

Are you a driven and detail‑oriented scientist eager to advance women’s health through microbiome research?

In the Carolina Microbiome and Ecology Lab, we aim to drive innovation in women’s health through in-depth exploration of the vaginal microbiome, development of new tools for preclinical testing of microbiome‑targeted therapies, and collaboration with academic, industry, community, and clinical partners.

Join our growing team as a Research Technician and contribute directly to the generation of high-quality molecular data supporting translational microbiome science.

Key Responsibilities

• Molecular Biology and Library Preparation: Perform DNA extraction from diverse sample types, develop and optimize qPCR assays, and prepare libraries for next‑generation sequencing. Ensure rigorous quality control across all stages of molecular workflows.
• Assay Development and Optimization: Work closely with the principal investigator and research team to assist in the design, validation, and implementation of molecular assays for microbial detection, quantification, and community profiling. Maintain meticulous records of protocols and results.
• Sample and Data Management: Organise, track, and document large sample sets through multiple stages of processing and analysis. Assist in compiling and interpreting data for downstream bioinformatic and statistical analysis.
• Support for Experimental Models: Contribute to bioreactor‑based in vitro model experiments as needed, assisting with sample collection, maintenance, and data integration from these systems.
• Laboratory Operations: Maintain laboratory organization and compliance with safety standards. Support ordering, inventory management, and coordination with collaborators to ensure smooth laboratory operations.
• Collaborative Research and Communication: Participate in lab meetings and collaborative discussions within our international vaginal microbiome research network. Share progress, troubleshoot challenges, and contribute to manuscripts and presentations as appropriate.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.

Management Preferences

Prior experience with qPCR and next‑generation sequencing workflows strongly preferred.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Position/Schedule Requirements Evening work occasionally, Laboratory, Weekend work occasionally

Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/324342

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.