We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join an ARPA-E-funded project focused on reducing nitrous oxide emissions from corn by integrating ancestral genetics and advanced nitrogen management. This role centers on developing and deploying analytical approaches for Biological Nitrification Inhibition (BNI) and Biological Denitrification Inhibition (BDI) to rapidly and effectively screen large panels of maize germplasm. The Research Associate will spearhead efforts to mine a newly developed collection of hundreds of Near-Isogenic Lines (NI - Ls) derived from teosinte accessions, aiming to identify the genetic loci responsible for BNI and BDI traits. Primary Responsibilities: Research (80%) Pipeline Development: Coordinate cross-laboratory efforts at NC State University to develop and optimize experimental pipelines for screening large varied panels for nitrogen efficiency traits. Sample & Resource Management: Collect data, gather soil and plant samples, perform biological extractions, and manage resource sharing among NC State laboratories and external collaborators. Genetic Mapping Collaboration: Collaborate closely with postdoctoral researchers to conduct QTL mapping and fine-mapping of BNI/ BDI traits, identifying candidate regions and alleles across varied teosinte taxa. Project Management (20%)Reporting & Compliance: Assist in the preparation of scientific and administrative quarterly reports to ensure compliance with project milestones and ARPA-E deliverables. Financial Administration: Manage project procurement and track budgets to ensure the efficient use of research funds. Candidate Profile:We are seeking candidates with a strong track record of organizing complex experiments and managing samples and personnel within laboratories focused on plant/microbial quantitative and statistical genetics, bioinformatics, or the comparative genomic characterization of gene function. Because this role serves as a crucial bridge between different research groups, strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively across laboratories with varied areas and levels of expertise are essential. Professional Development & Logistics:As a member of a multi-institutional team (NC State, University of Illinois, ORNL, and University of Arizona), the Research Associate will collaborate with experts in microbial ecology, crop physiology, and biogeochemical modeling. Professional development opportunities include mentoring students, writing manuscripts, and engaging with industry stakeholders for technology hand-off. Please contact Joseph Gage (jlgage@ncsu.edu), Alex Woodley (alwoodle@ncsu.edu), Christine Hawkes (chawkes@ncsu.edu), Debjani Sihi (dsihi@ncsu.edu), Michael Hyman (mrhyman@ncsu.edu), Rubén Rellán Álvarez (rrellan@ncsu.edu) with any inquiries. Other Responsibilities Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities. Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience Master’s degree in Plant Biology, Quantitative, Statistical, or Molecular Genetics, Microbiology, Plant Breeding, or a closely related scientific discipline. Other Required Qualifications Research Experience: Practical experience in experimental design and plant phenotyping, alongside a strong background in quantitative, statistical, and/or molecular genetics. Computational Proficiency: Programming and scripting experience using R, Python, Bash, or similar languages for data analysis Preferred Qualifications Applied Phenotyping: Hands-on experience designing and executing experiments across varied environments—including greenhouses, controlled growth chambers, and field trials—specifically aimed at characterizing nitrogen efficiency traits. Collaborative Leadership: Proven experience managing or coordinating large-scale, cross-functional, or multi-institutional collaborative research efforts. Statistical Foundation: A strong fundamental understanding of statistical methodologies and advanced experimental design and analysis. Required License(s) or Certification(s) Valid driver’s license required. A valid NC Driver’s license within 60 days of hire. Valid NC Driver's License required Yes Commercial Driver's License required No Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions Job Open Date 06/17/2026 Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled Special Instructions to Applicants Please include as attachments a resume/ CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references. Position Details Position Number 00112138 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 Mandatory - Medical Emergencies, Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Department ID 118401 - Biochemistry EEO