Research Specialist - Theriot Lab

The mission of the Department of Population Health and Pathobiology is to recruit, train, inspire, and graduate Doctors of Veterinary Medicine of exemplary knowledge, skill, and character. In order to maintain the intellectual and professional climate necessary to accomplish this mission, the department's faculty will advance veterinary medical science through innovative basic and applied research, inspired mentoring of students (undergraduate, professional, residents, and graduate), excellence in clinical and diagnostic services, and innovative extension and engagement activities. North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is a dynamic community whose members are dedicated to preparing veterinarians and veterinarian scientists while advancing animal and human health from the cellular level through entire ecosystems. The College has gained international recognition on the strength of its teaching, research, engagement, and patient care efforts and is ranked 3rd among the nation's 28 colleges of veterinary medicine in the current U.S. News & World Report survey. Located on 180 acres near downtown Raleigh, the College encompasses 20 buildings on the main Centennial Biomedical Campus. Instruction is in three departments-Clinical Sciences, Molecular Biomedical Sciences, and Population Health & Pathobiology. In addition to the four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, there are programs leading to master and doctoral degrees in several areas with numerous opportunities for specialization. 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 The Theriot Lab is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Research Specialist for a 1 year appointment. This role is ideal for a candidate looking to dive deep into microbiology research, focusing on the intersection of anaerobic bacteria and infectious diseases. You will work directly with Prof. Casey Theriot to test research hypotheses that contribute to high-impact publications and future funding. The Research Specialist will have the ability to perform animal experiments that involve animal husbandry and restraint, technical manipulations and necropsy. Knowledge of both clean handling techniques, and aseptic techniques for handling either germ-free or BSL-2 animals. Ability to perform laboratory techniques or assays, that involve the use of a micropipette, anaerobic chamber and BSC, on samples that were either collected from animal experiments or samples of cultured bacteria. Key Responsibilities Your time will be split between high-level bench research and essential laboratory management. Research & Experimentation * Experimental Design: Develop methods and carry out experiments to test specific research hypotheses. * Microbial Cultivation: Cultivate and grow anaerobic bacteria using specialized techniques. * Assays & Techniques: Perform molecular and biochemical assays, including cell biological techniques on bacterial cultures. * In vivo Studies: Assist with animal infection studies and downstream data compilation. * Project Management: Manage multiple, concurrent research projects while ensuring data integrity for presentations and publications. Laboratory Management * Operations: Manage ordering, maintain inventory, and prepare stock solutions. * Safety: Update lab safety plans and oversee autoclaving procedures. * Mentorship: Supervise and provide guidance to undergraduate assistants and graduate students. Requirements & Qualifications We are looking for a collaborative individual who can balance independent work with a team-oriented environment. * Experience: Previous experience in a research setting with strong technical skills. * Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with the PI and lab members. * Preferred Background:Bacterial engineering * Anaerobic bacterial physiology * Microbiology of infectious diseases Other Responsibilities * Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities. Qualifications Minimum Experience/Education Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions. Preferred Qualifications * Proven Research Expertise: Demonstrated experience in conducting prior research, utilizing a goal-oriented approach to meet project milestones. * Effective Communicator: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences. * Detail-Oriented Organization: Exceptional organizational skills and a meticulous attention to detail, ensuring high-quality outputs while managing tight deadlines. * Collaborative & Independent: Highly motivated professional capable of driving results independently or contributing effectively within a team environment. * Technical Proficiency: Advanced computer literacy in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis software, with specialized experience in RStudio. Required License or Certification * N/A Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License Required? No

Created: 2026-04-15