Research Associate - McCarthy Lab

Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194643EP

Internal Recruitment
No

Working Title
Research Associate - McCarthy Lab

Anticipated Hiring Range
$50,000 - $65,000

Work Schedule
Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Job Location
Raleigh, NC

Department
Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences

About the Department
North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine (NC State CVM) is a dynamic community whose members are dedicated to preparing veterinarians, veterinarian scientists, and biomedical scientists while advancing animal and human health from the cellular level through entire ecosystems.

The Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences at the NC State CVM trains veterinarians, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows in research-based careers focused on discovering new information about animal and human health and disease and using those findings to enhance animal and human health and wellbeing.

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.
What we offer:

• 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
Join a dynamic research team dedicated to uncovering how mesenchymal cells orchestrate the balance of intestinal stem cells during development, health, and disease. Our work dives deep into the extracellular signaling pathways that drive tissue-cell interactions, specifically exploring how mesenchymal dysfunction contributes to Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

By joining our lab, you will leverage a sophisticated toolkit-ranging from in vivo genetic mouse models to cutting-edge 3D intestinal organoid cultures-to characterize the mechanisms of tissue homeostasis and repair.
A Collaborative Ecosystem We are proud members of a world-class scientific community. Our lab maintains deep-rooted connections with gastrointestinal researchers at UNC Chapel Hill and Duke University through the NIH-funded Center for Gastrointestinal Biology and Disease (CGIBD). This provides our team with unparalleled access to collaborative expertise, specialized cores, and a vibrant network of GI experts.
Your Role & Impact As a Research Associate, you will be at the heart of our experimental discovery. You will work under the direct mentorship of Dr. Neil McCarthy, gaining hands-on experience in high-impact translational science.
Laboratory Research & Technical Innovation

• Molecular & Histology: Spearhead DNA/RNA collection, RT-qPCR, and advanced sequencing (bulk and single-cell).
• Imaging & Biochemistry: Execute precise tissue processing for immunofluorescence, in situ hybridization, and Western blots, utilizing confocal imaging to visualize discovery.
• Advanced Analytics: Harness flow cytometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) to isolate and analyze specific cell populations.
• Cell Culture: Master the art of 3D organoid cultures and primary cell line maintenance.

Model System Management

• Manage mouse colony husbandry and PCR-based genotyping.
• Lead tissue harvesting for downstream mechanistic and histological studies, directly contributing to our in vivo data.

Experimental Oversight & Data Strategy

• Maintain precise, digital records of experimental workflows.
• Utilize advanced software to analyze, interpret, and ensure the quality of complex datasets.
• Collaborate and present your findings during lab meetings, contributing your voice to the scientific direction of the project.

Laboratory Operations & Mentorship

• Ensure the seamless flow of the lab by overseeing inventory and logistics.
• Maintain and calibrate specialized equipment.
• Play a key role in the lab culture by helping train and guide junior researchers.

Who You Are We are looking for a proactive, organized, and curious scientist who thrives in both independent and collaborative settings. If you are someone who takes initiative, manages time effectively, and is passionate about gastrointestinal biology, we want to hear from you.

We hope you will consider joining our team!

Other Responsibilities

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience

• Advanced Degree: A relevant post-baccalaureate or terminal degree in a biological or biomedical field (licensure may be required depending on specialization).
• Professional Research Track: A relevant Bachelor's degree supported by a proven track record of independent research experience.
• Equivalent Expertise: A comprehensive combination of substantive independent experience and specialized education that demonstrates mastery of the required laboratory techniques.

Other Required Qualifications
N/A

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with and handling DNA, RNA, and protein samples.
• Experience with cell culture.
• Experience with microscopy.
• Experience with flow cytometry.

Required License(s) or Certification(s)
NA

Valid NC Driver's License required
No

Commercial Driver's License required
No

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
05/07/2026

Anticipated Close Date
6/10/2026

Special Instructions to Applicants
Please attach a resume, cover letter, and contact information for at least three professional references.

Position Details
Position Number
00111178

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
194001 - Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences

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 View phone number on click.appcast.io 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io or View email address on click.appcast.io .

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.