The research associate will be responsible for conducting on-farm and laboratory experiments, to investigate the efficacy of different plant nutraceutical blends to improve feed efficiency and gut health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The project will involve generation and interpretation of multi-omics data (genomics, metabolomics, microbiomics and proteomics) so knowledge of big data analytics is important. The research associate will be involved in the collection of fecal and ruminal samples from beef cattle and dairy cows, and performing downstream laboratory analyses on the samples.

The incumbent will be using various nutritional evaluation techniques – in vitro batch culture, in situ and RUSITEC techniques. Knowledge of cellular and molecular biology techniques is desired but not required.

Furthermore, candidate will be responsible for statistical analysis of research results, and also assist in manuscript preparation/writing, as well as student supervision. Candidate should also be highly motivated and willing to learn new research techniques as necessary.

Candidate will also be responsible for daily management of the research laboratory, maintenance (and repair) of equipment, ensuring compliance of laboratory personnel with university safety regulations, and carry out other job-relevant duties as assigned.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University's College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has a rich history of innovation and application of cutting-edge technology. From our pioneering Laboratory Animal Science and Landscape Architecture programs to our award-winning Cooperative Extension and Agricultural Research programs, our faculty and staff serve today's needs while keeping an eye on the future.
With programs and expertise in such areas as biotechnology, agricultural and biosystems engineering, natural resources management, waste management, and food microbiology, the A&T College of Agriculture grows concurrently with the demand for qualified graduates. Our four academic departments are the Department of Agribusiness, Applied Economics and Agriscience Education; the Department of Animal Sciences; the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences; and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Design. Within these departments, students will find a myriad of opportunities for classroom learning, research and field work.
Through our Agricultural Research Program and our Cooperative Extension Program, we are able to research issues of importance to North Carolina and also provide research-based outreach training to citizens across the state and around the world.

Master's degree in Ruminant Nutrition, Animal Science with ruminant research experience, or in relevant Biological and Biomedical fields. 
Prior experience in conducting research with animals. 
Experience with cell culture techniques and performing gene expression analyses using quantitative RT-PCR. 
Evidence of strong work ethics. Candidate should have excellent interpersonal skills and work well with others. Position requires strong attention to detail, ability to exercise strong scientific judgement on daily basis, ability to work independently, and as part of a team. 
Proficiency in using Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc)

A Ph.D. degree in Ruminant Nutrition, Animal Science with ruminant research experience, or in relevant Biological and Biomedical fields.
Experience in working with ruminants in a research setting.
Experience in supervising undergraduate student research.
Proficiency in statistical analysis of biological data.
Experience in publishing scientific research manuscripts.
Experience with writing grant proposals.