Research Technician I, Nicholas School

Duke University:

 

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

 

 

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

 

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Research Technician I, you’ll be a vital part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team working across the Emanuel and Bernhardt Labs. In this role, you will support a NASA‑funded project exploring the distribution and drivers of coastal ghost forests while engaging with students, researchers, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

 

This 7‑month, full‑time position (with the possibility of extension based on future grant funding) offers hands‑on experience in analytical chemistry, remote sensing, data analysis, and fieldwork throughout eastern North Carolina.

 

Be Bold.

What You’ll Do:

Field Responsibilities (50%)

- Assist with fieldwork across coastal wetlands in eastern North Carolina

- Collect water, soil, and tree biomass samples

- Navigate and transport equipment across challenging terrain

 

Laboratory Responsibilities (50%)

- Conduct laboratory analyses and experiments on collected field samples

- Perform standard wet lab techniques, including weighing, pipetting, and safe chemical handling

- Maintain precision and accuracy to ensure high‑quality data

 

Education & Experience

- Associate’s degree in botany, biology, zoology, psychology, or a related scientific field

- Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent experience (2–4 years in a relevant role)

 

Skills & Competencies

- Foundational knowledge in Biology, Chemistry, and/or Ecology

- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs in rugged outdoor conditions

- Strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently and safely

- Valid U.S. driver’s license; ability to safely operate large pickup trucks in remote areas

- Experience with wet lab techniques, R or similar programming language, aquatic sensors, and Google Earth Engine

 

Choose Duke.

Are you looking for more than just a job? At Duke, you’re choosing a place where your curiosity is celebrated, your growth is supported, and your impact is real. Here, you don’t just show up — you belong, you contribute, and you help push the boundaries of what’s possible.

 

By joining the Emanuel and Bernhardt Labs, you become part of a university recognized worldwide for cutting‑edge discovery, bold innovation, and meaningful environmental research. You’ll gain immersive experience with leading scientists, advanced technologies, and a community that values your ideas as much as your skills.

 

Duke isn’t just a workplace — it’s a launchpad. A place where you can strengthen your expertise, explore new opportunities, and grow into the next bold version of yourself. When you choose Duke, you’re choosing a community that invests in you, empowers you, and inspires you every day to do work that truly matters.

 

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.

 

Anticipated Pay Range: Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $18.00 to USD $26.49. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

Equal Opportunity Employer: Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions: Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and reasonable accommodation(s) can be requested with Duke Access and Accommodations Services (email: DAAS@duke.edu; phone: 919-668-1267).