Posting DetailsPosting 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
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
