Research Scientist The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Employment Type: Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)

Vacancy ID: NF0009243

Salary Range: $55,100 - $85,000

Position Summary/Description:

The Research Scientist position supports research in a translational, molecular epidemiology laboratory focused on malaria, syphilis, hepatitis, and other diseases of global health significance. This position will include management of a vector xenosurveillance initiative that involves protocol development and collaboration across diverse partners, including entomologists, molecular epidemiologists, and experts in artificial intelligence, as well as coordination across multiple field sites in the US and abroad. Duties will include but are not limited to, carefully managing protocol and product development timelines; development of detailed, reproducible laboratory and field protocols that can be used in varied settings; coordinating regular meetings amongst partners; analyzing data for regular summary and technical reports; engaging foreign partners; manuscript and proposal writing; and other project-related activities as needed. Occasional international travel may be required. Because this position is heavily focused on integrating advanced laboratory methods, field collections of insect vectors, and comprehensive reporting that includes diverse data streams, experience in infectious disease laboratory and translational research projects is desired.

Education and Experience:

• Experience conducting advanced infectious disease laboratory techniques.
• Experience with next-generation sequencing and analysis.
• Experience with detailed laboratory and/or field protocol development, optimization, and implementation in resource-constrained settings.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Experience with manuscript preparation.
• Attention to detail, including achieving stated objectives according to strict timelines.
• Previous experience working in a highly collaborative, fast-paced research environment, ideally involving vector-borne diseases.
• Previous experience working with international partners, particularly those in resource-constrained environments.
• Experience with infectious disease project support and management.
• Previous experience developing user-friendly (AI-based) tools for infectious disease detection.
• Strong record of protocol, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and methods development.
• Experience with Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing and analysis.
• Experience collecting, organizing, and analyzing high-volume data.

Essential Skills:

• Experience conducting and supporting infectious disease laboratory and field research in resource-constrained settings.
• Experience managing large cross-institutional projects.

AA/EEO 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.