Junior Specialist/Siddique Lab, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA

Type: Full-Time
Salary: Salary range: A reasonable estimate for this position is $53,100
Posted: Today
Category: Laboratory and Research

Position overview

Salary range:
A reasonable estimate for this position is $53,100.Application Window

Open date: December 18, 2025

Next review date: Wednesday, Jan 7, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Wednesday, Jan 7, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications will continue to be accepted until this date.

Position description

Junior Specialist Position Description in the Nino Lab

Department of Entomology and Nematology, UC Davis

NATURE AND PURPOSE

The position of Specialist has a narrow focus in a specialized area and provides technical or specialized expertise (e.g., with instrumentation and research equipment or with social science research methods) in the planning and execution of a research project. The Specialist stays apprised of emerging issues and problems and maintains technical competence in the designated area(s) of specialization. Within this defined area and when appropriate, the Specialist is expected to provide mentorship, facilitate teamwork and develop collaborative relationships with colleagues and to supply input into the planning of research and educational programs. Normally, Specialists do not have Principal Investigator (PI) status but may obtain permission by exception and/or collaborate with a PI in preparing research proposals for extramural funding. The Specialist is evaluated for merit and promotion using three basic criteria outlined below.

Overview:

We seek to hire a Junior Specialist (1.0 FTE) to support our research on root-knot nematodes resistance in tomato. The Junior Specialist will contribute to a wide range of molecular, microbiological, and plant-based workflows. Core responsibilities include molecular assays (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blots), preparation of media and consumables and maintenance of nematode cultures. The role also includes assisting with greenhouse procedures, which can involve standing work and light physical activity for extended periods. Techniques used in this role include-but are not limited to-those listed above, with opportunities to learn additional methods as project needs evolve.

A team-oriented mindset is essential. This role requires clear communication, willingness to support colleagues, and a positive approach toward routine and repetitive tasks that ensure smooth laboratory operations. Strong attention to detail, accurate record-keeping, adherence to protocols, and a constructive attitude toward troubleshooting are key competencies for success. This position is full-time (40 hours/week), one-year appointment. Regular working hours are 9:00-17:00, Monday-Friday, with participation in weekly lab meetings and occasional progress updates.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Research (80%):

The Junior Specialist will make significant contributions to publishable research by supporting ongoing nematology and molecular plant pathology projects. Responsibilities include:
* Assist with greenhouse activities including plant care, inoculations, phenotyping, and harvesting nematode samples.
* Assist with routine lab tasks such as preparing media, pouring plates, and maintaining sterile workspaces.
* Perform molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western Blot, and sample preparation for sequencing or downstream analyses.
* Support nematode culturing, maintenance of Meloidogyne isolates, and preparation of inoculum.
* Assist with experiments involving transgenic plants, including growth, sampling, and phenotypic evaluation.
* Maintain accurate lab notebooks, sample inventories, and digital datasets.

Participate in general lab upkeep, including restocking supplies and ensuring shared areas remain orderly.

Professional Competence (15%)
* Participate in weekly lab meetings, present project updates, and contribute to group discussions.
* Assist in preparing figures, datasets, or preliminary text for presentations and manuscripts when appropriate.
* Conduct literature searches relevant to project aims and participate in data interpretation with the PI and postdoctoral researchers.
* Opportunities may be available to present research at departmental seminars or local scientific meetings, depending on project involvement and progress.

University and Public Service (5%)
* Participate in occasional departmental outreach activities (e.g., UC Davis events related to plant pathology, nematology, or agricultural science).
* Provide basic guidance or support to undergraduate assistants in the lab when needed, under supervision of the PI or postdoctoral researchers.

Department: https://entomology.ucdavis.edu/

Qualifications

Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

This position requires a minimum of a Bachelor of Science or equivalent degree (Biology, Entomology, Molecular Sciences, Plant Pathology, Plant Sciences, or

similar field).

NOTE: The junior specialist rank is an entry level position; accordingly, it is inappropriate to hire applicants with

advanced degrees in this field, or those with BS degrees and three years’ relevant work experience.

Preferred qualifications (other preferred, but not required, qualifications for the position)
* Experience with basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis).
* Experience with microbial or nematode culturing, or routine handling of plant-parasitic nematodes.
* Experience working in greenhouse, growth chamber, or controlled-environment plant experiments.
* Familiarity with plant-microbe or plant-nematode interactions, host-pathogen assays, or related experimental systems.
* Experience with microscopy (light, dissecting, or fluorescence).
* Experience with data entry and data management, including use of Excel, R, or similar software.
* Demonstrated ability to follow and accurately document laboratory protocols.
* Practical competence in routine molecular or microbiological laboratory procedures (e.g., pipetting, buffer/media preparation, sterile work)

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter – A cover letter that describes your related interests, experiences, and career goals and that describes your interest and qualifications in the position.
• Authorization to Release Information Form – This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments. Please see the Employment Disclosure Requirements webpage for more information. Download, complete, sign, and upload the form.

Reference requirements

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

Apply link:
https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07442

Help contact: cdhogan@ucdavis.edu

About UC Davis

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM – 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

To implement this process, UC Davis requires all applicants for any open search to complete, sign, and upload the form entitled, “Authorization to Release Information” into UC RECRUIT as part of their application. If an applicant does not include the signed authorization with the application materials, the application will be considered incomplete, and as with any incomplete application, will not receive further consideration.

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco-free campus (http://breathefree.ucdavis.edu/).

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state for federal law.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UC Davis positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check. More information is available at: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify

The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and students. Our excellence in research, teaching, and service are embodied by members of our academic community who share our commitment to these values. A variety of resources and programs are available to academics, staff, and students that reflect the core values reflected in our strategic plan: “To Boldly Go,” our Principles of Community, the Office of Academic Affairs’ Mission Statement, and the UC Board of Regents Policy 4400.

UC Davis is also a national leader in inclusive practice. There are numerous links available on the About Us webpage where you can learn more about our administration, campus rankings, locations, campus safety, sustainability, visiting UC Davis and UC Davis Health.

The university is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world for campus sustainability practices by the UI Green Metric World University Rankings. UC Davis is focused on achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and repeatedly shown its commitment to preserving a healthy and sustainable environment for generations to come.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

Job location

Davis, CA

Job ID: JPF07442

UCD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer