Research Technician

Research Technician The UNCIVCure Center and the Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics in the School of Medicine at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill invite applications for a Research Technician, Advanced. The UNCIVCure Center is dedicated to the discovery, development, and implementation of innovative therapeutic strategies aimed at achieving durable, treatment-free remission of HIV infection. This role is a highly motivated, experienced, and independent research professional that supports and leads studies focused on HIV persistence and eradication strategies. The laboratory investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms of HIV latency, chronic HIV-associated complications, and therapeutic targets for HIV cure interventions including kick-and-kill, direct-kill, and deep-latency approaches. Research platforms include in vitro and ex vivo cellular latency models, ART-suppressed rhesus macaque models, and analysis of tissues derived from individuals with HIV, SIV/rhesus macaques, and HIV/hu-mouse models. The Research Technician will oversee day-to-day laboratory operations by managing supplies, maintaining equipment, ensuring safety compliance, and coordinating shared resources. This role also maintains laboratory inventories, orders reagents and consumables, and monitors adherence to budget and spending guidelines. The Technician will serve as a primary point of contact for EHS, biosafety, chemical safety, and facility inspectors to keep all protocols and certifications current. In addition, they will train and mentor junior staff, students, and new laboratory members in research methods, laboratory procedures, and safety practices. The position assists with protocol development, optimization of complex experiments, data quality control, and troubleshooting technical issues, while also supporting the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and promoting consistency across laboratory workflows. The Research Technician will work independently and collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, clinicians, and industry partners to advance the Center's mission. Minimum Education and Experience Requirements - Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work. Management Preferences - The ideal candidate will have experience and interest in cellular and/or animal models of SIV/HIV infection or other viral infection models with expertise in flow cytometry, tissue culture, and cellular immunology to facilitate translational research at the clinical/basic science interface. He/she should also be proficient in microscopy techniques and immunostaining. Preference will be given to candidates with extensive experience in tissue processing, primary cell culture, flow cytometry, and molecular biology/biochemistry techniques such as co-immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, qPCR/RT-qPCR/ddPCR, and western blot analysis. Single-cell omics (scRNA-seq, ATAC-seq, etc.) training in T-cell biology and/or neurobiology will be a plus. Candidates should also have strong laboratory and analytical skills as demonstrated by a strong track record of relevant first-author publications (postdoc) or co-authored publications (technician) in well-respected journals. Outstanding communication skills in English are essential for this position. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong technical expertise, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to lead laboratory operations in a dynamic, translational research environment. Required Licenses/Certifications Special Physical/Mental Requirements - Must possess flexibility, mobility, and strength to store and access research samples, reagents, and supplies. Needs to have the physical ability to perform many varied tasks; i.e., fine motor skills, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a high level of concentration to do challenging techniques. Campus Security Authority Responsibilities - Not Applicable. Position/Schedule Requirements - Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens, Laboratory Equal Opportunity Employer 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.