Senior Research Scholar

North Carolina State University; North Carolina; On-site; USD 82,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Flexible Spending Account

Retirement Programs

Disability Plans

Job summary

NC State University in Raleigh, NC is seeking a Senior Research Scholar to lead cutting‑edge genome editing research across crop species. You will develop protocols, assays, and analytics, guiding teams and collaborating across the Genome Editing Center.

You will mentor Ph.D. scientists and postdocs while advancing projects, publications, and sponsored research. A strong background in molecular biology and genome engineering is essential.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. and 5+ years of research experience in molecular biology and genome engineering.
• Experience leading teams and research programs.
• Strong knowledge of sequencing technologies and genomic data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead genome editing research across crop species, including target identification and guide RNA design.
• Develop and refine genome editing protocols, molecular assays, sequencing strategies, and high‑throughput genotyping methods.
• Design and analyze genome editing outcomes to support research programs and publications.
• Provide scientific leadership, mentorship, and training to researchers and students.
• Develop SOPs and training materials to ensure quality and continuity of research.
• Collaborate across departments and with partners to advance genome editing projects.

Skills

Molecular biology

Genome engineering

Plant genome editing

Scientific leadership

Mentoring & training

Education

Ph.D. in relevant field

Tools

TaqMan

PCR

Nanopore

Illumina

Job description

Posting Details

Posting Information

Posting Number PG194994EP

Internal Recruitment No

Working Title Senior Research Scholar

Anticipated Hiring Range $81,500 – $87,500

Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM

Job Location Raleigh, NC

Department Entomology and Plant Pathology

About The Department

As part of the Land Grant University, the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University is composed of over 40 faculty that direct a diverse portfolio of programs in teaching, research, and extension. Collectively, these strengths not only serve our clientele and our science but also provide a rich environment for graduate education and training that can be tailored to the specific career interests of the student, irrespective of whether they prefer training in the basic sciences or are preparing for a career in extension. Our education and research programs provide graduate and undergraduate students with unique hands‑on learning opportunities using the latest technologies. Entomology and Plant Pathology houses the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, the Larry Grand Mycological Herbarium, Micropropagation and Repository Unit, Structural Pest Management Training Facility, an Insect Museum with 1.9 million vouchered insects, and the Center for Integrated Fungal Research.

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences houses 12 Academic departments with 294 faculty, 2,891 undergraduate students and 899 graduate students. The College is home to 18 research stations strategically located across the state that enhances our interactions with our farmers, stakeholders, and industry partners. Our strategic plan, Growing Our Future 2023-2030 is accessible here https://units.cals.ncsu.edu/cals-strategic-plan/.

Wolfpack Perks And Benefits

As a Pack member, you belong here,, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well‑being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

• Medical , Dental , and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership , and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Essential Job Duties

As the Senior Research Scholar with the Genome Editing Center ( GEC ) at NC State University, you will provide scientific and technical leadership in molecular biology, genome engineering, genomics, and bioinformatics to advance genome editing research across crop species and trait areas. You will lead the development and refinement of genome editing protocols, molecular assays, sequencing strategies, and analytical pipelines while developing high-throughput approaches for characterizing genome-edited and modified plants. Working collaboratively with scientists, postdoctoral scholars, research teams, and the Genome Sciences Laboratory, you will provide specialized research expertise to support complex research projects across the College.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead genome editing research across crop species, including genomic target identification, guide RNA design, off‑target analysis, and evaluation of editing outcomes.
• Develop and refine genome editing protocols, molecular assays, sequencing strategies, and high‑throughput genotyping platforms using technologies such as TaqMan, PCR , Nanopore, and Illumina. Develop approaches for transformation, tissue culture, vector construction, and molecular characterization.
• Sequence ornamental plant genomes, identify lead candidates for genome editing, design guide RNAs, and analyze genome editing outcomes in support of the Overdevest Sponsored Project Agreement with Overdevest Nurseries, which accounts for approximately 60% of the position.
• Analyze genomic, molecular, and statistical data to inform research conclusions and support publications, patents, grant proposals, and sponsored research activities.
• Provide scientific and technical leadership, consultation, training, and mentorship to Ph.D. scientists, postdoctoral scholars, visiting scientists, and other research personnel.
• Develop standardized protocols, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training materials to support research quality, consistency, and continuity. Collaborate across departments and with research partners to advance genome editing projects and research capabilities

This position offers an opportunity to contribute to an emerging research center while shaping the molecular and genomic approaches that support complex research projects across crop species. If you are interested in providing scientific leadership, advancing genome editing research, and developing specialized capabilities that support research across the College, we welcome you to apply to join the Genome Editing Center at NC State University.

Other Responsibilities

In addition to the core responsibilities of this role, there may be occasional opportunities to take on additional duties. This offers an opportunity to build on your skills, explore new areas, and gain a deeper understanding of the department’s operations.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience

Ph.D. and 5+ years research experience in molecular biology and specifically vector construction, assay development, molecular analysis, and genome engineering in industry and academic settings, including leadership of teams.

Other Required Qualifications

• Advanced knowledge of molecular biology, genome engineering, and plant genome editing techniques.
• Knowledge of molecular assay development, sequencing technologies, and genomic data analysis.
• Ability to develop and optimize research protocols and novel techniques.
• Ability to independently lead complex research activities, interpret genomic and molecular data, and draw research conclusions.
• Skills in scientific leadership, cross‑functional collaboration, and training and mentoring research personnel.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of industry experience including leading teams of scientists
• 10+ years research experience in molecular biology and specifically vector construction, assay development, molecular analysis, and genome engineering in industry and academic settings, including leadership of teams.

Required License(s) Or Certification(s) N/A

Valid NC Driver's License required No

Commercial Driver's License required No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions

Job Open Date 10/26/2026

Anticipated Close Date 11/09/2026; if posting is still active we are accepting and reviewing applications.

Special Instructions to Applicants Please include a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information for professional references.

Position Details

Position Number 00112412

Position Type EPS/SAAO

Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.0

Appointment 12 Month Recurring

Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather

Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event

Department ID 111801 - Entomology and Plant Pathology

EEO

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, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability‑related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at [phone] or [e-mail].

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.