Research Specialist

Posting Information

Posting Information

Department Envir Sciences and Engineering - 463001 Career Area Research Professionals Posting Open Date 11/13/2026 Application Deadline 11/18/2026 Position Type Temporary Staff (SHRA) Position Title Research Specialist Position Number 20079479 Vacancy ID S028262 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 Work Schedule Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range $36.00 per hour Proposed Start Date 01/01/2027 Estimated Duration of Appointment 6 months or longer

Position Information

Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Department of Environment of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (ESE) focuses on the interface between people and the environment with interdisciplinary programs in air quality, atmospheric processes, human exposure and health effects, and sustainable water resources, drawn from faculty expertise In the physical and life sciences engineering and policy. The Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (ESE) is an academic and research department located in the Gillings School of Global Public Health and has 24 faculty, 29 joint and adjunct faculty, 14 administrative staff members, and 7 research staff members. It has about 120 graduate students. The mission of the Gillings School of Global Public Health is to improve public health, promote individual well-being, and eliminate health disparities across North Carolina and around the world.

Position Summary

This position will lead the development of quantitative microbial risk assessment models and digital user tools for application in hospital and healthcare settings. The individual will work closely with faculty investigators across multiple institutions to integrate quantitative microbial data into predictive risk models that will be communicated to diverse audiences through interactive and decision-support dashboards.

In addition, the individual will consult on new and ongoing investigations related to microbiomes in the built environment. These investigations are to include the measurement and management of pathogens from hospital and healthcare settings, as well as the measurement and management of fungal molds in indoor spaces.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Management Preferences

• Coursework in environmental health sciences, environmental sciences and engineering, microbiology, public health, or related field
• Experience developing interactive simulation interfaces or decision-support dashboards
• Expertise in environmental or public health microbiology
• Demonstrated proficiency with quantitative microbial risk assessment modeling
• Strong quantitative, analytical, or problem-solving skills

Special Physical/Mental Requirements Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/328642 Temporary Employment Policies

Temporary Employment Policies

Posting Contact Information

Office of Human Resources Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

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.

Optional and Required Documents

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae / Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of References

Optional Documents

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).