Scientist

Socket.dev; Mount Holly (NC); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev is seeking a Scientist to support plant-soil interactions and environmental microbiology research. The role blends greenhouse management with molecular lab techniques to uphold rigor and infrastructure of the program.

You will collect samples, perform DNA extractions, and contribute to library preparation and sequencing workflows, while maintaining records and ensuring data integrity in a collaborative team setting.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Biology, Plant Science, Microbiology, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Hands-on greenhouse or field research experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of DNA extraction and quantification.
• Strong problem-solving and data interpretation skills.
• Able to communicate results clearly (written and verbal).
• Adaptable to fast-paced research environments.
• Attention to detail and data integrity are essential.
• Good time-management and multi-tasking ability.
• Able to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily greenhouse operations and maintain growth conditions for experiments.
• Collect, process, and store soil and rhizosphere samples per protocols.
• Perform DNA extractions from soil, plant, and microbial samples and assess quality.
• Assist with DNA library prep and sequencing workflows after training.
• Maintain thorough records of lab activities, inventories, and observations.
• Manage lab supplies, track stock, and coordinate procurement.
• Support general lab upkeep, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Skills

Greenhouse operations

DNA extraction

Molecular biology

Data integrity

Scientific communication

Time management

Team collaboration

Education

B.S. in Biology/Plant Science/Microbiology/Environmental Science

Tools

Qubit fluorometer

DNA library preparation

Pipettes and standard lab equipment

Centrifuges and balances

Job description

The Scientist role supports ongoing research in plant-soil interactions and environmental microbiology. This position plays a central role in maintaining the infrastructure and scientific rigor of our research program, combining hands-on greenhouse management with molecular laboratory techniques.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily greenhouse operations, including plant care, environmental monitoring, and maintenance of growth conditions to meet experimental requirements
• Collect, process, and store soil and rhizosphere samples in accordance with established research protocols
• Perform DNA extractions from soil, plant, and microbial matrices and assess sample quality and yield through quantification methods such as Qubit fluorometry
• Assist with DNA library preparation and sequencing workflows following appropriate training
• Maintain thorough and accurate records of laboratory activities, sample inventories, and experimental observations
• Manage laboratory supplies and reagent inventories, including tracking stock levels and coordinating procurement
• Support general lab upkeep including equipment maintenance, organization, and troubleshooting

Requirements

• B.S. in Biology, Plant Science, Microbiology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field
• Hands-on experience in greenhouse or field-based research settings preferred
• Working knowledge of standard molecular biology techniques, including DNA extraction and quantification
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills in a research setting
• Ability to interpret and communicate scientific results clearly (written + verbal)
• Adaptability in a fast-paced or evolving research environment
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to data integrity
• Strong time-management skills with the ability to balance multiple ongoing tasks
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a collaborative research team

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move between greenhouse and laboratory environments for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry materials up to ~25-40 lbs
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks such as pipetting, sample processing, and plant maintenance
• Comfortable working in varying environmental conditions, including heat, humidity, and soil/dust exposure in greenhouse settings
• Ability to bend, kneel, and reach while tending to plants or handling samples
• Ability to use standard laboratory equipment (pipettes, centrifuges, balances) safely and effectivelyWillingness to wear required PPE (gloves, lab coat, eye protection, etc.)