Postdoctoral Research Scholar- Callahan

Position Overview

The Callahan Lab at NC State University (https://callahanlab.cvm.ncsu.edu/team/) is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to lead research that will improve the accuracy and reliability of 'omics measurements of microbial communities. The salary range is $63,000-$73,000/yr. Initial appointment is for one year, with renewal based on mutual agreement thereafter. Funding is available for at least three years.

NC State University is located in Raleigh, a moderate cost of living city that is the capital of North Carolina and one of the three points of the “Research Triangle” along with UNC Chapel Hill and Duke. The Research Triangle is one of the most dynamic places for academic and industrial research and development in the world. The Callahan Lab is part of the cluster for Microbiomes and Complex Microbial Communities at NC State (https://facultyclusters.ncsu.edu/clusters/microbiomes-and-complex-microbial-communities/).

Screening of applicants will begin immediately, and applications will be considered until the position is filled. Interested candidates should apply with a cover letter, a CV and contact information for two references through the NC State job portal. Inquiries about the position can be sent to Dr. Benjamin Callahan (bcallah@ncsu.edu).

Duties and Responsibilities

The postdoctoral scholar will lead components of an NIGMS-funded research program to make the measurement of complex microbial communities (or “microbiomes”) more accurate and quantitative. Three potential research thrusts have already been identified:

• long-read amplicon sequencing at maximum resolution
• correcting and accounting for bias in metagenomic sequencing
• improving interpretation of metaproteomic measurements

Research ideas by the candidate that fit in the broader theme of improving microbiome measurements will also be considered. This research program builds on advances pioneered in the Callahan lab such as the DADA2 software for amplicon denoising, the MWC model for taxonomic bias in metagenomic measurements, and a growing collaboration related to metaproteomics with the Kleiner lab at NC State.

Other responsibilities will include participation in regular project meetings with collaborators, presentation of research at conferences and preparation of manuscripts.

Requirements and Preferences

• Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm additional hours may be required
• Department Required Skills: A PhD in the computational/quantitative sciences OR the life sciences. Demonstrated ability to apply quantitative reasoning to complex problems. Strong written and oral communication skills. Two references that can speak to the candidate’s potential for meaningful contributions to science.
• Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education: Experience analyzing high-throughput biological data, such as shotgun metagenomics data, RNA-seq, or LC-MS/MS based proteomics data. Proficiency using the command line and data science platforms such as R or Python. Formal training in the quantitative sciences. Research experience in the life sciences.

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. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone. What we offer:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement and Leave
• Faculty and Staff Assistance Program
• Enhance your career with LEAD courses
• Attend non-revenue generating sporting events for free.

Recruitment

• Anticipated Hiring Range: $63,000-$73,000
• If you anticipate multiple hires from this search, please indicate how many:

Recruitment Dates

• Job Open Date: 06/09/2026

Applicant Information

• Quick Link: https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/231499
• 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 919-513-0574 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 (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu. 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.