Temporary Research Associate

Posting Number:

PG195371TM

Position Number:

11ASO3525

Position Type:

Temporary

Essential Job Duties:

The NC State Plant Disease and Insect Clinic (PDIC) is a state diagnostic lab focusing on plant diseases and arthropod pests. The Research Associates primary responsibility is diagnosing diseases of vegetables and other agricultural crops/other host plants using various methods for clients, and clearly communicating results with clients. This is primarily a service/extension role.

Duties included but are not limited to:

• Identifying the plant and searching literature to find possible causes of diseases and other problems.
• Using existing or researching diagnostic testing procedures and modifying or developing new protocols to improve performance and/or sensitivity and specificity as necessary.
• Preparing written diagnostic reports and working with specialists to include management recommendations for the client.
• Reporting results to the National Plant Diagnostic Network.
• Recognizing when a diagnosis may result in possible regulatory action and communicating this information to the appropriate clinic staff and Director, as well as regulatory collaborators (NCDA&CS, USDA-APHIS).
• Analyzing and summarizing diagnostic results to find trends in plant disease and the vegetable industry.
• Giving outreach presentations to stakeholders, EMVGs, and/or guest lectures on plant disease diagnosis and identification in undergraduate and graduate courses.
• Collaborating on research projects; if time allows, leading small research projects as desired and time allows (not a primary duty).
• Other duties required for lab maintenance and operations.

Is Time Limited:

No

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.
What we offer:

• Health Insurance for Temporary Employees
• Enhance your career with LEAD courses
• Attend non-revenue generating sporting events for free.
  
  

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare discounts , 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. Job City & State:

Raleigh, NC

Department:

DEPP

Classification Title:

Temporary-Technical/Paraprofessional

Working Title:

Temporary Research Associate

Work Schedule:

40/hrs per week

Other Work/Responsibilities:

• n/a

Minimum Experience/Education:

• Masters in Plant Pathology or closely related field or 5 or more years of experience identifying plant diseases in a diagnostic laboratory

Department Required Skills:

• Basic lab safety knowledge
• Experience with computers and basic computer software (e.g. Microsoft Office, email, Google applications

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education:

• PhD degree in Plant Pathology or closely related field
• Experience diagnosing various diseases (especially fungi, bacteria and viruses) of plants
• Experience with molecular methods for diagnosing plant problems

Required License or Certification:

• n/a

Valid NC Driver's License required?:

No

Commercial Driver's License Required?:

No

Anticipated Hiring Range:

$25-$30/hr, dependent upon experience and education

Job Open Date:

08/11/2025

Quick Link: 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 ... 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 ... or ... .

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.